The Nicaraguan government has granted permission for the entry, transit, and stationing of military troops, ships, and aircraft from the Armed Forces of Russia, as well as Cuba, the United States, Mexico, and Venezuela, within its territory.
According to a presidential decree published in the Official Gazette La Gaceta, this measure will be in effect from January 1 to June 30, 2026, aimed at mutual exchange and humanitarian assistance in the event of emergencies.
This decree, signed by Daniel Ortega and his wife, Rosario Murillo, also includes provisions for the transit or presence of military personnel, ships, and aircraft from Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and the Dominican Republic—countries that are part of the Conference of Central American Armed Forces (CFAC).
The document outlines that the Russian military presence will collaborate with Nicaragua's Special Operations Command in exchanging experiences and conducting training exercises related to humanitarian aid operations.
Additionally, plans are in place for exchanges and training with Nicaragua's Naval Force to combat illegal activities in the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean's jurisdictional waters, as well as training for search, rescue, and emergency response operations.
The decree permits the entry of an unspecified number of Russian military personnel, ships, and aircraft during the specified period.
Similar "exchange and training" initiatives extend to Venezuelan military personnel, focusing on security tasks, planning humanitarian exercises, and disaster response.
For Cuba and Mexico, the decree mentions the entry for exchanging experiences and humanitarian activities.
The decree specifies that for the United States, the entry of personnel, ships, and aircraft must be pre-planned and coordinated with the Nicaraguan Army. The objective is to carry out humanitarian aid operations and search, rescue, and recovery missions by air, sea, and land, including docking at ports and landing at national airports.
This measure is pending ratification by the Parliament, which is under government control, as reported.
This decision comes amid heightened political tensions due to the increasing U.S. military presence near Venezuelan waters.
Key Questions on Nicaragua's Military Collaboration
What is the purpose of allowing foreign military presence in Nicaragua?
The aim is to facilitate mutual exchange and humanitarian assistance in case of emergencies.
Which countries are involved in this military collaboration with Nicaragua?
Countries involved include Russia, Cuba, the United States, Mexico, Venezuela, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and the Dominican Republic.
What activities are planned under this decree?
Planned activities include experience exchange, training exercises, combating illegal maritime activities, and search and rescue operations.
How is the U.S. military involvement regulated under this measure?
U.S. military activities must be pre-planned and coordinated with the Nicaraguan Army, focusing on humanitarian aid and rescue missions.