Release of Nicaraguan Political Prisoners

The U.S. government secured the release of 135 Nicaraguan political prisoners who arrived in Guatemala and will apply for entry to the United States or other countries. The prisoners were released on humanitarian grounds, and the Nicaraguan government received nothing in exchange. The U.S. continues to pressure the government of President Daniel Ortega for unjustly detaining people.

Biden Administration Pauses Migrant Program

The Biden administration has paused a program allowing migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela to enter the U.S. due to significant fraud in the applications. The program grants up to 30,000 nationals per month entry under certain conditions.

Nicaragua's Gold Mines Granted to China

Nicaragua's communist regime under dictator Daniel Ortega has granted control of the nation's gold mines to three Chinese companies in expedited and dubious procedures, raising concerns about environmental impact and lack of due process. The United States has imposed sanctions on Nicaraguan-based gold companies with ties to the Ortega regime to curb corruption and manipulation in the sector.

Cuban Activist Bárbaro de Céspedes Blocked from Fleeing to Nicaragua

Cuban opposition activist Bárbaro de Céspedes was blocked from entering Nicaragua, preventing him from fleeing Cuba. De Céspedes, known as “The Patriot of Camagüey,” was arrested for participating in anti-communist protests and sentenced to prison. His attempt to leave Cuba was thwarted by Nicaraguan authorities, leaving him stranded. He accused Cuban and Nicaraguan officials of conspiring against him.

U.S. Government Imposes Visa Restrictions and Sanctions on Nicaragua

The United States imposed visa restrictions on over 250 Nicaraguan government officials and sanctioned three entities due to repressive actions and failure to stem migrant smuggling. The Nicaraguan government is enabling illegal migration to the U.S. through social networks and a Russian training center in Managua.

Colombia Breaking Diplomatic Relations with Israel over Gaza Conflict

Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced that Colombia will break diplomatic relations with Israel over its actions in Gaza, calling Israel's government genocidal. Several Latin American leaders, including Bolivia and Nicaragua, have taken a strong vocal stand against Israel since its military campaign in response to a Hamas-led attack.

Conflict between Israel and Palestinians

The International Court of Justice refused to order Germany to stop sending weapons and aid to Israel, rejecting Nicaragua's request based on a lack of legal requirements. Germany defended its actions, stating it works towards a two-state solution and is a major donor of humanitarian aid for Palestinians.

International Court of Justice ruling on Nicaragua's request regarding Israel and Gaza

The top U.N. court rejected Nicaragua's request to order Germany to halt military aid to Israel and renew funding to the U.N. aid agency in Gaza. The court expressed concern over the living conditions of Palestinians in Gaza but did not find the legal grounds to issue provisional measures. The case will continue to be heard at the court.

Persecution of Christians in Nicaragua

The communist regime in Nicaragua convicted 11 pastors associated with the Evangelical Mountain Gateway ministry on dubious money laundering charges, sentencing them to between 12 and 15 years in prison. The pastors were fined $80 million each, and their lawyers were also sentenced to prison. The regime's repression of Christians aligns with Christian holidays, including Holy Week. The regime has a history of violent repression against Christians, shutting down nonprofits and NGOs since 2018.

Human Rights Abuses in Nicaragua

A panel of U.N.-backed human rights experts accused Nicaragua’s government of systematic human rights abuses 'tantamount to crimes against humanity,' implicating high-ranking officials in President Daniel Ortega’s regime. The government fiercely rejected the allegations.

Nicaragua's Security Deals with Russia Under Daniel Ortega's Regime

Nicaragua's socialist dictator Daniel Ortega signed security deals with Russia to bolster his regime's repression, despite UN condemning human rights abuses. Ortega seeks advice, training, and economic support from Russia to control political adversaries. The UNHRC report accuses Ortega of committing crimes against humanity and calls for international action.

Human Rights Abuses in Nicaragua

A panel of U.N.-backed human rights experts accused Nicaragua's government of systematic human rights abuses, implicating high-ranking officials in President Daniel Ortega's government. The crackdown on political dissent has escalated, targeting all forms of opposition, including civilians, students, Indigenous and Black Nicaraguans, and members of the Catholic Church. The government has consolidated power through repression and fabricating evidence against opponents.