US closely monitoring situation in Haiti, State Dept says

The United States is closely monitoring the situation in Haiti after violence escalated over the weekend, adding the situation underscores the urgency of finalizing the multi-national security support mission to assist the country's national police.

State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said it is Washington's understanding that Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry is returning to the country, adding the U.S. thinks it is important he is allowed to do so. The U.S. embassy remains open but has limited operations, he said.