Nicaragua Passes Law Against Foreign Sanctions

Nicaragua's parliament has passed a law designed to nullify foreign sanctions against President Daniel Ortega, his vice president Rosario Murillo, and other high-ranking officials, despite the sanctions remaining in effect internationally. The legislation, approved unanimously by the Sandinista Front, compels local banks and institutions to ignore such sanctions, declaring them 'null and void' within Nicaragua. Critics warn that this could destabilize the financial system and increase governmental control. In response to Nicaragua's human rights violations, President Biden has signed an executive order imposing new sanctions, aiming to pressure Ortega's regime to restore democracy. The international community, including the UN and OAS, has condemned the Nicaraguan government's crackdown on dissent, highlighting the dire social and economic conditions faced by citizens. The conflicting actions of Nicaragua's government and the U.S. reflect a broader struggle over human rights and governance in the region.