    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2004, Book I)]
    [February 25, 2004]
    [Pages 268-269]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Letter to Congressional Leaders on the Deployment of U.S. Military
    Forces in Response to Security Concerns for United States Embassy
    Personnel in Haiti
    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

    [[Page 269]]

    Congress informed, consistent with the War Powers Resolution.
             Sincerely,

                                                              George W. Bush

    Note: Identical letters were sent to J. Dennis Hastert, Speaker of the
    House of Representatives, and Ted Stevens, President pro tempore of the
    Senate.