January 15, 2026
U.S. Senator Marco Rubio has made clear that international humanitarian organizations working in Haiti will not face sanctions for making payments to gangs in exchange for safe passage, as long as such payments are made under duress.
Speaking before Congress this week, Rubio acknowledged the disturbing reality that aid agencies are often forced to pay “tolls” to armed groups to access vulnerable populations. While these forced payments are deeply troubling, he stated, they will not be interpreted as material support to terrorist-designated groups.
“Sanctions targeting gangs in Haiti are not meant to penalize NGOs,” Rubio affirmed. “We understand the complexity on the ground and the risks these organizations face in trying to deliver life-saving aid.”
Rubio’s comments came as the U.S. formally designated Haitian gangs like Viv Ansanm and Gran Grif as terrorist entities. He stressed that the designation is crucial for cutting off international funding and supplies to these groups.
The Florida senator also denounced the role of U.S. nationals in financing and supporting Haitian gangs, noting several links to networks operating in South Florida. “Americans aiding gangs in Haiti should face full accountability,” he said.
Calling for a broader regional response to the Haitian crisis, Rubio urged the Organization of American States (OAS) to take a more active role. He suggested that the OAS should be prepared to take over long-term stabilization efforts from the Multinational Security Support Mission, which remains delayed and limited in scope.
“The hemisphere has a responsibility to Haiti,” Rubio said. “A regional solution, not just a multinational one, is essential at this point.”
