January 14, 2026
The United States is stepping up its stance against armed groups in Haiti by officially designating them as foreign terrorist organizations. This decision was announced by the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince, marking a sharp shift in tone in response to escalating insecurity.
Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau confirmed this new direction during a forceful statement. He said he had coordinated with the Department of Justice to launch thorough investigations into networks supporting these gangs.
According to him, the flow of money and weapons from U.S. territory will now be subject to strict monitoring. He issued a direct warning: “If you are sending money and/or weapons to Haitian gangs from the United States, we will come after you.”
This position reflects a clear intent to cut off vital resources to Haitian criminal groups. It is part of a broader strategy to combat the instability affecting the region.
The U.S. administration also hopes to reduce the impact of foreign influence on local violence and to show that any support for gangs will not go unpunished—even from abroad.
