Earlier today, the office of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced that 700 American citizens have been rescued from Haiti, which is in the middle of violent riots and political infighting.

Below is an official statement from the governor’s office.

 The Florida Division of Emergency Management (the Division) began rescue operations at the direction of Governor DeSantis on March 20, 2024, due to the political turmoil in Haiti.

“The State of Florida doesn’t shy away from doing the right thing and helping Americans in need,” said DeSantis. “I’m proud to announce that despite the lack of cooperation from the federal government, more than 700 Americans have been successfully evacuated from Haiti to Florida.”

“Evacuating our residents has been challenging, and I am incredibly proud of the hard work our State Emergency Response Team, private and nonprofit partners have done to bring Americans home and accommodate their needs upon returning to Florida,” said Division Executive Director Kevin Guthrie. “We will always stand ready to support our residents and I thank Governor DeSantis for giving us the opportunity to do so in any crisis.”

Upon return to Florida, the Division ensures evacuees have access to resources including, but not limited to, food, water, medical treatment and transportation home.