On 9 February, the Nicaraguan authorities released and deported 222 political prisoners, including three EU nationals, to the US.  The EU has consistently called, by all means available, for their release. Although they should not have spent one single day in prison, today the EU expresses satisfaction and relief.

The EU also welcomes the role of the US administration in facilitating the safe journey and entry into the United States of the former prisoners, as well as the provision of related emergency support. 

While the EU rejects the decision to strip the former prisoners of their Nicaraguan citizenship and of their civil and political rights, which is a violation of their fundamental rights and international law, their release is a positive and long-awaited step that should be followed by dialogue and further actions. 

The EU remains open to the political dialogue with Nicaragua, through the appropriate diplomatic channels, and conducted in a respectful manner.