The United States is intensifying efforts to transform the Kenya-led multinational force in Haiti into a U.N. peacekeeping mission.
This push comes after escalating gang violence, which recently shut down air traffic in Port-au-Prince.
In September, the U.S. proposed the U.N. mission to secure funding for the force fighting Haiti’s powerful gangs.
However, the mission has faced funding challenges.
Gang violence spiked last Sunday amid political turmoil, with gangs now controlling 85% of Port-au-Prince.
On Monday, they shut down the main airport after shooting at planes.
The U.S. presented a draft resolution to the U.N. Security Council, aiming to start preparations for the transformation.
However, Russia and China blocked the proposal.
The Kenya-led force, originally meant to include 2,500 international police, currently deploys just 430 personnel.
Despite pledges for more troops, funding remains inadequate.
Haiti’s leaders have requested a U.N. peacekeeping force, a call recently supported by the Organization of American States.
However, many Haitians remain cautious about renewed foreign intervention due to past controversies.
