[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 40, Number 9 (Monday, March 1, 2004)]
[Pages 284-285]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
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

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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

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