For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
February 25, 2004
Presidential Letter
Text of a Letter from the President to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President Pro Tempore of the Senate
February 25, 2004
Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:)
Increasing armed rebellion in Haiti, the limited effectiveness of
the Haitian National Police, and insecurity in Port-au-Prince brought
on by increased armed pro-government gang activity have contributed to
a climate of insecurity for the U.S. Embassy and its supporting
facilities in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. These circumstances and the
potential for further deterioration of the security environment in
Haiti render the safety of the U.S. Embassy, its facilities, and U.S.
personnel uncertain.
On February 23, 2004, a security force of approximately 55 U.S.
military personnel from the U.S. Joint Forces Command deployed to
Port-au-Prince, Haiti, to augment the Embassy security forces.
Although the U.S. forces are equipped for combat, this movement was
undertaken solely for the purpose of protecting American citizens and
property. It is anticipated that U.S. forces will provide this support
until such time as it is determined that the security situation has
stabilized and the threat to the Embassy, its facilities, and U.S.
personnel has ended.
I have taken this action pursuant to my constitutional authority to
conduct U.S. foreign relations and as Commander in Chief and Chief
Executive. I am providing this report as part of my efforts to keep
the Congress informed, consistent with the War Powers Resolution.
Sincerely,
GEORGE W. BUSH
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