By Roberson Alphonse
“The United States is fully committed to finding solutions to the crisis and is sparing no effort in facilitating the deployment of the multinational force in Haiti,” according to our sources.
On Wednesday, May 8, 2024, Le Nouvelliste learned that the US Southern Command confirmed the coordination of multiple flights involving US military aircraft. These flights are transporting equipment and civilian contractors tasked with establishing temporary living facilities in preparation for the potential arrival of the Multinational Mission for Security Support (MMSS).
«Efforts persist in fostering a more stable and prosperous Haiti,» stated a declaration provided to the newspaper by Steven McLoud from the US Southern Command’s communication department.
«In line with this objective, the United States Southern Command has orchestrated several flights of US military aircraft, ferrying civilian contractor personnel, equipment, and supplies to Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince, Haiti.»
«Between May 3 and 5, the initial group of civilian contractors transported by aircraft collaborated with Haitian airport officials to secure the incoming equipment and supplies. Recently deployed additional contractors are tasked with establishing the temporary living area in preparation for the potential arrival of the MSSM,» continued the declaration.
«This mission owes its success to the ongoing coordination and support of Haitian stakeholders, who are diligently working to maintain the airport’s operations. The United States remains steadfast in its commitment, as articulated in this declaration, to providing robust and comprehensive assistance to Haiti as the nation progresses toward a safer and more prosperous future.»
Advancements in security cooperation have been reported. We’ve learned that equipment from the $70 million security aid package for Haiti is slated to arrive soon. Both the Haitian National Police (PNH) and the MSSM are set to receive equipment.
Furthermore, there has been a shift in the American stance toward the Armed Forces of Haiti (FAD’H). They are now open to providing non-lethal assistance. The specifics of this equipment are yet to be confirmed, emphasized a source close to the PNH to Le Nouvelliste.
«The PNH is expected to receive in May or early June 10 armored infantry vehicles from the USA out of a promised batch of 35. The remaining 25 have been ordered,» our source indicated.
«The Haitian government has ordered 20 armored vehicles. They are expected to be delivered in 4 to 6 weeks,» according to our source. Politico had revealed in this military aid program to Haiti that it consulted documents indicating a delivery schedule of 80 Humvees, 35 MaxxPro infantry vehicles, sniper rifles, riot gear, firearms, ammunition, and surveillance drones.