Cabinet focused on Haiti and Ukrainian conflict

During the weekly Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, the members discussed two significant issues of conflict that require attention – the ongoing instability in Haiti and the prolonged war between Russia and Ukraine.

The meeting commenced with a discussion on Haiti, where Prime Minister Dr. Ariel Henry has agreed to step down as per the arrangement negotiated by CARICOM Heads of Government.

As per the Cabinet Notes, Prime Minister Henry indicated that Antigua and Barbuda’s position on Haiti was clear, and it was communicated during the previous meeting of Heads of Government in March 2024 in Guyana.

At that meeting, the Prime Minister made it clear that Antigua and Barbuda would like to see Prime Minister Henry of Haiti resign.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne stated that until Dr. Henry steps down, it would not be possible to negotiate a settlement.

A virtual meeting of CARICOM leaders was scheduled for Wednesday night to continue discussions on Haiti.

The meeting also touched upon the two-year-old war between Russia and Ukraine, where Prime Minister Browne reiterated his call for Ukraine to seek peace.

The Prime Minister’s stance on the matter aligns with Pope Francis, who has urged Ukraine to “raise the white flag” and make peace with Russia.

It was also noted that Henry Kissinger, the former U.S. Secretary of State, proposed a year before his death that Ukraine should seek out peace with Russia in a war it cannot win to end the human suffering.

To conclude, the Prime Minister’s views on both Haiti and Ukraine are consistent with those of thought-provoking leaders worldwide who deem war to be ultimately harmful to civilians and soldiers.