By Micah Jonah
January 23, 2026
The United Nations has pledged to deploy more troops to Haiti as armed gangs tighten their grip on the Caribbean nation, political turmoil deepens.
UN special envoy, Carlos Ruiz said the force, currently numbering around 1,000 mostly Kenyan police, will reach full strength of 5,500 by summer. The additional troops aim to support local police in restoring security amid rampant violence and lawlessness.
Haiti’s transitional government is set to end its mandate on February 7 with no clear succession plan. Recent reports suggest members of the Transitional Presidential Council attempted to oust Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aime days before the council’s term expires.
The UN envoy warned that internal fighting must end, urged authorities to act in the nation’s interest.
The United States, Canada have condemned moves to destabilize the government, warning that any collusion with gangs will face international consequences.
Haiti’s crisis has left over 1.4 million people internally displaced, with gangs controlling most of the capital, expanding into rural areas.
