Catherine Russell, the executive director of the UN children’s agency, delivered a bleak assessment on Sunday of the dire situation in Haiti, likening it to a scene from the dystopian film “Mad Max,” known for depicting a lawless and violent post-apocalyptic world.
Speaking on CBS talk show “Face the Nation,” Russell described Haiti as facing a “horrific situation,” marked by widespread hunger and malnutrition, exacerbated by challenges in delivering aid due to gang control over significant parts of the capital, Port-au-Prince, and critical transportation routes.
According to Russell, the conditions in Haiti represent “the worst that anyone has seen in decades,” with basic services near collapse, further compounded by factors such as drought, natural disasters, and political instability.
The recent resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry, coupled with the ongoing violence and unrest, has left millions of Haitians vulnerable, awaiting the formation of a transitional governing council.
The challenges faced by foreign aid workers were underscored by an incident where gangs looted a shipment of supplies intended to provide relief for mothers and children. The looting occurred amidst escalating tensions and violence in the country.
As the situation continues to deteriorate, efforts are underway to assist US citizens in leaving the country, with a chartered flight transporting more than 30 individuals to Florida. However, commercial options remain limited, and security concerns persist.
In response to the crisis, a curfew has been extended in the Ouest department, encompassing Port-au-Prince, while plans for a Kenyan-led security mission to support the overwhelmed Haitian police force are being pursued.