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Russia has urged caution regarding the rapid deployment of a multinational security mission to Haiti, advocating for a more measured approach that prioritizes political solutions over foreign military interventions. Speaking during a UN Security Council meeting on the worsening security situation in Haiti, the Russian delegation emphasized the need for careful planning to avoid exacerbating the country’s already fragile political environment.
While acknowledging the severity of the gang violence, Russia’s representative stressed that any international mission must be conducted with respect for Haiti’s sovereignty and should not undermine the country’s self-determination. “We believe that external intervention without a comprehensive political dialogue may further destabilize Haiti,” the Russian delegate said. “The focus should be on fostering dialogue among Haitian political stakeholders to address the root causes of violence.”
Russia also expressed concerns about the potential long-term impact of deploying foreign security forces without ensuring robust political engagement. The Russian representative warned that militarization could escalate tensions and called for the UN to focus on facilitating Haitian-led efforts to restore stability.
The debate comes amid escalating gang violence in Haiti, where criminal groups are increasingly gaining control of key areas and infrastructure. United Nations officials, including María Isabel Salvador, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Haiti, described the dire situation, with daily acts of violence and sexual assault going unpunished. Salvador urged the swift deployment of the Multinational Security Support Mission, recently authorized by the UN Security Council.
However, Russia maintained that any intervention should be part of a broader political process. Moscow reiterated its support for Haiti’s sovereignty and independence, urging all parties involved to ensure that any foreign assistance does not lead to unintended consequences. Russia also stressed that renewed sanctions, such as those imposed under Security Council resolution 2700 (2023), should be carefully monitored to ensure they do not disproportionately impact Haitian civilians.
As other Council members, including the United States and France, pushed for immediate security measures and international support to combat arms trafficking, Russia argued that without a legitimate political process, external forces would be limited in their effectiveness. “A political vacuum has existed for far too long in Haiti,” the Russian delegate noted, urging Haitian stakeholders to take responsibility for their country’s future.
Russia’s position reflects broader concerns about the potential risks of military interventions and the importance of long-term political stability. The debate over Haiti’s future continues as the international community balances the urgent need for security with respect for the nation’s sovereignty and the pursuit of lasting political solutions.
