April 11, 2025
The United States has immediately suspended its financial contribution to the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission in Haiti, a United Nations spokesperson announced Tuesday. The decision follows a broader freeze on U.S. international aid imposed by Donald Trump upon his return to the White House on January 20. The U.S. had already contributed $15 million to the UN fund supporting the mission, but the remaining $13.3 million has now been blocked, with $1.7 million already spent.
Launched in October 2023 with UN Security Council approval, the Kenya-led MSS mission aims to assist Haitian police in countering the rise of armed gangs, which now control 85% of the capital, according to the UN. However, the mission is facing severe financial challenges. Despite the existence of a voluntary UN fund, only $110 million has been raised—far below what is needed. Canada remains the largest contributor, with $63 million committed, while the U.S. has now pulled back.
The deployment of forces on the ground remains limited. Since last summer, only 800 police officers from six countries have been sent to Haiti, well below the initial goal of 2,500. Meanwhile, armed gangs continue their relentless attacks, threatening the country’s stability and the mission’s effectiveness. Amid the worsening crisis, Haiti’s transitional authorities are calling for the MSS mission to be transformed into a full-fledged UN peacekeeping force, which could secure more structured funding and a stronger military presence.
The U.S. funding freeze comes as Washington reassesses its entire foreign aid program, eliminating support for initiatives deemed inconsistent with its new policy direction. If this stance remains unchanged, the multinational mission could be further weakened, making efforts to combat gangs more uncertain than ever.
