U.S. General Advocates for International Collaboration on Haiti Crisis and Regional Stability

The littoral combat ship USS Billings participates in an exercise with the special mission ship U.S. Motor Vessel Kellie Chouest in the Caribbean Sea

Army Gen. Laura Richardson, the commander of U.S. Southern Command (Southcom), emphasized the need for an international and Haitian-inclusive solution to the crisis in Haiti during an Atlantic Council event on March 19, 2024. Highlighting the potential for mass migration due to the crisis, Richardson stressed the importance of a humane response to populations seeking escape. While the U.S. currently has no plans to deploy troops to Haiti, efforts are being made in collaboration with regional and international governments, as well as NGOs, to address the situation.

Richardson also touched on the ongoing border dispute between Guyana and Venezuela, assuring close monitoring and international support for Guyana. Regarding the Chinese space facility in Argentina, she noted the importance of Argentine decision-making and continued U.S.-Argentina cooperation.

The general pointed out China's growing economic influence in the region, with trade expected to double by 2035, and criticized China's loan practices as having "strings attached," contrasting them with the democratic values upheld by the U.S. Richardson also highlighted a U.S. initiative to replace Russian military equipment in nine regional nations with superior U.S. equipment to aid Ukraine, further promoting regional security.

Significant progress in women's peace and security efforts was also mentioned, with increased military integration of women enhancing national readiness. Gen. Richardson expressed her commitment to working with regional partners to combat illegal activities and maintain a free, secure, and prosperous region.