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U.S. Sanctions Nicaragua’s Prison Director Over Human Rights

2/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

The United States designated Prison Director Roberto Clemente Guevara Gómez for alleged human rights violations, announced by Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
The U.S. Embassy clarified that the designation falls under Section 7031(c) of the Department of State Appropriations Act.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio called for accountability and the release of unjustly detained political prisoners.
The United States will impose a phased tariff on Nicaraguan goods starting in 2026 and will adjust tariff rates if Nicaragua fails to address labor and human rights abuses.

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Story summary

The United States designated Prison Director Roberto Clemente Guevara Gómez for alleged human rights violations, announced by Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
The U.S. Embassy clarified that the designation falls under Section 7031(c) of the Department of State Appropriations Act.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio called for accountability and the release of unjustly detained political prisoners.
The United States will impose a phased tariff on Nicaraguan goods starting in 2026 and will adjust tariff rates if Nicaragua fails to address labor and human rights abuses.