US Secures Release of 135 Political Prisoners from Nicaragua to Guatemala

Sep 5, 2024, 02:37 PM

The United States has secured the release of 135 political prisoners from Nicaragua on humanitarian grounds, the White House announced on Thursday. The prisoners, including 13 members of the Texas-based Mountain Gateway organization, Catholic laypersons, and students, were released after months of negotiations between the U.S. and Nicaragua. The released individuals have been sent to Guatemala, where they will stay temporarily before potentially relocating to the U.S. or other countries. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan called on the Ortega regime to cease imprisoning individuals for their religious and political beliefs. This release marks a significant diplomatic effort by the Biden administration, with Guatemala's President Alejandro Giammattei playing a key role in accepting the prisoners. The move sends a strong message to the region about the U.S.'s commitment to human rights and democracy.