In a statement released on Monday, December 15, 2025, the Council of the European Union announced restrictive measures against three Haitian political figures and one criminal group for their involvement in gang violence and human rights violations. Those targeted are former President Michel Martelly, former Senate President Youri Latortue, former Senator Rony Célestin, and the gang “5 Segond,” led by Johnson André, known as Izo. According to the statement, these measures were adopted in light of “the escalation of gang violence, the ongoing serious human rights violations committed by gangs in the country, and the continued impunity of the perpetrators.”

According to the EU, Michel Martelly and Youri Latortue “both armed and financed several gangs to advance their political agendas, defend their personal and economic interests, and control territory.” With regard to Rony Célestin, the EU accuses him of being involved in violence linked to armed groups and smuggling, and of being responsible for orchestrating the murder of journalist Néhémie Joseph, who had exposed his illegal activities and corruption. The European Union also maintains that the “5 Segond” gang is responsible for committing theft, rape, kidnapping, murder, hacking, extortion, obstruction of humanitarian aid, and arms and drug trafficking.