Official statements from the U.S. government, Nicaraguan government, or credible news sources

U.S. Secures Release of 135 Political Prisoners from Nicaragua to Guatemala

Sep 5, 2024, 01:17 PM

The United States has successfully negotiated the release of 135 political prisoners from Nicaragua on humanitarian grounds. The White House announced that these individuals, including members of a Texas-based ministry, were freed from detention by the regime of President Daniel Ortega. They have been sent to Guatemala, where they arrived on Thursday morning and will initially reside before potentially relocating to the U.S. or other countries. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and Secretary of State Antony Blinken both emphasized the importance of this release and called on the Nicaraguan government to cease imprisoning individuals for their religious and political beliefs. The release follows months of negotiations between the U.S. and Nicaragua, with Guatemala's President Alejandro Giammattei playing a pivotal role in accepting the prisoners.