Major Policy Shift Targets Haiti’s Most Dangerous Gangs
The United States government is cracking down on violent gangs destabilizing Haiti. On Friday, the State Department officially designated two major Haitian gangs as foreign terrorist organizations.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio made this announcement in a firm, direct statement. He named the gangs Viv Ansanm and Gran Grif, calling them key drivers of chaos across Haiti. The fight against gang violence in Haiti is now entering a new, tougher phase.
Rubio stressed the urgency of the moment. “The age of impunity for violence in Haiti is over,” he declared at a press briefing. These designations target the gangs’ financial operations and influence networks. Anyone supporting them now faces prosecution, deportation, or loss of immigration benefits.
This move is part of the broader fight against gang violence in Haiti, which has alarmed global leaders. U.S. officials hope these new measures will help Haitian authorities reclaim control and restore order.
Viv Ansanm, formed in 2023, grew out of a violent merger between G-9 and G-Pép. This group launched brutal attacks on airports, prisons, and government buildings, pushing Haiti’s former prime minister to resign. Gran Grif, on the other hand, firmly dominates Haiti’s central Artibonite region. In fact, it has been blamed for 80% of civilian deaths there since 2022. Moreover, this includes the recent killing of a Kenyan officer who was assisting with security efforts.
The U.S. believes these gangs aim to overthrow the Haitian government. Their goal is total control through fear, violence, and illegal activities. The fight against gang violence in Haiti has now drawn urgent international attention, with the United Nations warning of rapid deterioration.
Rubio praised Haitian police and global partners for their ongoing efforts. He called on Haitian leaders to act decisively. “Now is the time to prioritize the safety of all Haitian citizens,” Rubio urged.
he warned U.S. citizens to avoid any support or interaction with these designated gangs, emphasizing the serious security risks present in the region. Officials stressed that any contact with these groups could lead to severe legal consequences. Travelers and aid workers are being urged to exercise extreme caution. The U.S. government continues to monitor the situation closely, promising further updates as the crisis unfolds. “These designations are a vital tool,” he said. “They help isolate criminal groups and limit their reach.”
The world is watching closely as the crisis deepens. The U.S. hopes that these tough sanctions will help ease tensions and promote stability.
For more political updates, visit DC Brief.
