On Monday, the delegation of 6 members from Kenya, led by the Commander of the Multinational Security Support Mission (MMSS) quickly noted logistical problems and delays in equipment that the Americans must provide. There is a shortage not only of armored vehicles to move foreign troops (a delay in deliveries) but also of radios and communications equipment, weapons and other things the mission needs from the start. In addition, the mission must also have helicopters to evacuate potential wounded from the country, most hospitals being dysfunctional or closed in Haiti.

A US official said the radio and communications equipment should be delivered by the end of May... For the helicopters, El Salvador has reportedly made proposals but there appears to be disagreement over the offer .

Due to these American logistical problems, the deployment of the Mission could be postponed until the beginning of June.

A deployment of Mission forces could nevertheless take place before the end of the month, but the Biden administration would oppose this deployment without medical evacuation procedures and equipment being put in place.

Furthermore, Kenya has agreed with the Haitian Government on the rules of engagement of security personnel but the agreement has not yet been put in writing or submitted to the United Nations Security Council, prerequisite for starting the mission.

See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-42376-haiti-flash-the-kenyan-commander-of-the-mission-at-the-head-of-a-high-level-delegation-is-in-port-au-prince.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-42371-haiti-flash-the-pnh-receives-10-new-armored-vehicles-from-the-united-states-video.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-42337-haiti-flash-the-first-kenyan-contingent-regroups-for-departure.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-42293-haiti-flash-more-than-100-us-army-flights-expected-in-the-coming-days-in-port-au-prince.html

PI/ HaitiLibre