Haitian citizens have shown their appreciation for the Salvadoran soldiers stationed in their country, a sentiment highlighted by videos shared by Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele on his social media. In these clips, President Bukele included a message in Haitian Creole: «Sanble gang yo pa vle goumen avè n…» which translates to "It seems the gangs don't want to fight with us..."
Footage from both aerial and ground perspectives captures the military column advancing through the streets of Port-au-Prince, with residents expressing gratitude towards Bukele and the armed forces. One man on a motorcycle approached the convoy, declaring in Spanish, "Bukele is my friend, he is like a father to me, thank you very much."
Similar scenes of support were witnessed in Kenscoff, southeast of the capital, where locals greeted the troops with applause and songs.
The Salvadoran military presence in Haiti was increased following an ambush on October 18 in Croix-des-Bouquets, where four Salvadoran aviation technicians were attacked with gunfire and explosives while returning from purchasing supplies. Their armored vehicle was set aflame, and they have been missing since.
In response to this attack, President Bukele issued a stern ultimatum to the gangs and initiated a rescue mission, boosting the Salvadoran military force from an initial 124 personnel to over 2,000 by the end of October.
Haitian Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé publicly thanked El Salvador for their assistance, confirming that operations are being coordinated with the Haitian National Police, Haitian Armed Forces, the UN-backed Gang Suppression Force (GSF), and Salvadoran troops.
President Bukele also shared a photograph of Salvadoran soldiers alongside the Haitian presidential band, symbolizing the strengthened ties between the two governments.
Bukele has noted that El Salvador is funding 90% of the operation with its own resources, stating, "We are almost the only ones paying for this operation," towards the end of October.
On November 1, gang leader Wilson Joseph, known as "Lanmò San Jou," called for UN mediation and warned of potential violence escalation, claiming—without evidence—that the four Salvadorans were dead.
The UN acknowledged receipt of the letter but clarified it does not equate to recognition of the sender or support for its content; additionally, a spokesperson indicated that most Salvadoran military forces are not operating under the GSF framework.
On Wednesday, President Bukele labeled those who fund or collaborate with the gangs in Haiti as "traitors," likening them to those who betrayed Haitian national hero Jean-Jacques Dessalines in 1806.
As of the latest updates, the four missing Salvadoran technicians have not been officially located, although the Haitian National Police recovered the burned vehicle on November 2 without finding the missing individuals.
FAQs on Salvadoran Military Presence in Haiti
Why are Salvadoran troops in Haiti?
Salvadoran troops were deployed to Haiti following an attack on Salvadoran aviation technicians. The mission aims to aid in stabilizing the area and combating gang violence.
How has the Haitian government responded to the Salvadoran presence?
Haitian Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé has expressed gratitude for the support from El Salvador and confirmed that the operations are being coordinated with various Haitian and international forces.
What has been the local reaction in Haiti to the Salvadoran troops?
Many Haitian citizens have welcomed the Salvadoran troops, expressing gratitude and support as they navigate through the streets.