Trump Declares Haitian Gangs as Terrorists, Intensifying Sanctions

The designation of the Viv Ansanm coalition as terrorists may exacerbate Haiti's humanitarian crisis, especially as these gangs dominate essential economic sectors.

In a significant move on Friday, the Trump administration officially designated a powerful alliance of armed gangs in Haiti as a terrorist group. This designation impacts the coalition known as Viv Ansanm, which has played a pivotal role in exacerbating violent unrest and attacking critical state institutions. With the gangs controlling key economic access points, including major roads and ports, the situation in Haiti is precarious.

Originally emerging last year under the guise of community protection, Viv Ansanm quickly evolved into a threat, launching assaults on civilian areas, prisons, hospitals, and local police. The terrorist designation grants the Trump administration broad powers to impose economic sanctions on the group, and it could potentially open the door to military action against them.

Moreover, individuals and organizations implicated in any financial dealings with the gang coalition could face sanctions, bringing into question the future of commerce in Haiti. Experts warn that enforcing these penalties could result in a complete halt of trade with the country. Virtually every item that is transported in or out of Port-au-Prince is subject to gang fees, making the economic landscape extraordinarily tenuous.

“Haitian humanitarian access programs may also grind to a halt,” cautioned Jake Johnston, a senior research associate at the Center for Economic and Policy Research. “Aid delivery becomes practically impossible without negotiation with these gangs.”

As a reporter for The Times based in Mexico City, Emiliano Rodríguez Mega covers critical issues affecting Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.