February 4, 2026
U.S. authorities have announced new restrictive measures against Haitian officials suspected of links to armed groups involved in the country’s chronic insecurity, some of which the United States classifies as foreign terrorist organizations.
This new round of sanctions targets three high-profile figures: Leslie Voltaire and Smith Augustin, members of the Transitional Presidential Council, as well as Alfred Fils Métellus, Minister of Economy and Finance, recently designated Acting Prime Minister following the TPC’s resolution removing Alix Didier Fils-Aimé.
With these additions, the number of TPC members subject to U.S. visa restrictions rises to five, while a sitting minister joins the list for the first time.
The decisions are based on Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which authorizes denial of entry to any individual whose conduct is deemed contrary to U.S. foreign policy interests.
Visas already issued to those concerned, as well as to their immediate family members, will be revoked. Washington warns that these measures will remain in force and may be extended to any other individual involved in destabilizing Haiti and its regional environment.
