February 16, 2026
Washington has announced new sanctions targeting individuals accused of collaborating with gang leaders in Haiti. The U.S. State Department states that certain individuals legally residing in the United States have “provided support and collaborated with Haitian gang leaders linked to Viv Ansanm.”
Designated as a foreign terrorist organization, Viv Ansanm is described as a “driver of violence and criminality in Haiti,” fueling the country’s ongoing instability. According to U.S. authorities, it is unacceptable for legal residents to “benefit from legal status” while aiding the operations of criminal groups.
Relying on existing immigration laws, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is now authorized to initiate deportation proceedings against these individuals. This decision is part of a broader strategy to “protect national security interests” and maintain order in the region.
These measures mark a turning point in the U.S. approach to transnational networks involved in the Haitian crisis. The Trump administration thus reaffirms its intent to penalize anyone using U.S. territory to destabilize Haiti.
