February 17, 2026
The U.S. Department of State has announced visa restrictions against two members of Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council (TPC), Edgard Leblanc Fils and Louis Gérald Gilles, as well as their immediate family members. The measure aims to sanction their alleged involvement with armed gangs and other criminal activities in Haiti.
According to Washington, these officials have obstructed efforts by the Haitian government to combat groups that have now been designated as foreign terrorist organizations. The sanctions are imposed under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of U.S. immigration law, which authorizes the denial of entry to individuals whose presence would compromise U.S. foreign policy interests.
The State Department reaffirmed its commitment to Haiti’s stability and its willingness to work with local authorities to reduce violence and restore state authority. In its statement, it stressed that “the Haitian people are fed up with gang violence, destruction, and sterile political infighting.”
The U.S. administration, under President Donald Trump, said it intends to strengthen accountability and take firm action against any individuals contributing to the destabilization of Haiti and the region. These sanctions serve as a clear warning to political actors involved in supporting or shielding armed groups.
The decision could further disrupt the balance within the TPC, already weakened by internal tensions and a deteriorating security environment. At the time of the announcement, no official reaction had been recorded from Haitian authorities or the individuals concerned.
