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U.S. Imposes Visa Restrictions on Haiti's Leaders Amid Instability

1/30/2026

Center

U.S. Restricts Haitian Officials

The U.S. State Department imposed visa restrictions on two members of Haiti's Transitional Presidential Council (CPT) and a cabinet minister.
The CPT planned to replace Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé before their February 7 mandate ends.
State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said the actions have enabled gangs to destabilize Haiti.
The restrictions also apply to their immediate families.
International actors urged the CPT to avoid changes near term end.

Left

U.S. Forces Confront Gangs

The U.S.-backed Gang Suppression Force prepares to deploy to Haiti to confront rampant gang violence.
Haitian National Police, aided by drones and heavy weapons, reclaim key areas in Port-au-Prince.
The violence has displaced 1.4 million people, with reports of increased sexual violence.
Critics warn of civilian casualties from drone strikes, while the government pursues private security partnerships.
The situation remains precarious, with ongoing challenges in restoring stability and public safety.

History

Historical Context

In 1994, the U.S. led Operation Uphold Democracy to restore President Jean-Bertrand Aristide after a military coup in 1991. This intervention, authorized by UN Security Council Resolution 940, involved over 20,000 troops and aimed to stabilize Haiti amid ongoing violence. Today, U.S. visa restrictions on Haiti's Transitional Presidential Council highlight the persistent instability and challenges in restoring order in the nation.

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U.S. Restricts Haitian Officials

The U.S. State Department imposed visa restrictions on two members of Haiti's Transitional Presidential Council (CPT) and a cabinet minister.
The CPT planned to replace Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé before their February 7 mandate ends.
State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said the actions have enabled gangs to destabilize Haiti.
The restrictions also apply to their immediate families.
International actors urged the CPT to avoid changes near term end.

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