American businessman and founder of Blackwater, with a history of private security ventures
Four Salvadoran aviation technicians have gone missing after an armoured vehicle was ambushed and set on fire in Croix-des-Bouquets, Haiti. El Salvador has launched a military operation and is sending more soldiers to recover them; Haiti’s government has said their release is a top priority while fighting with gangs continues in the area.
Haiti has welcomed international forces as a partner in its fight against gangs, stating the mission is to support the state rather than replace it. Haitian officials say the priority is to reestablish security and hold elections, as Salvadoran troops face questions over their mandate and coordination with local security forces. The U.N. emphasizes compliance with international law as ground operations continue.