In response to Nicaragua’s recognition of Crimea and other Ukrainian territories as Russian, Ukraine has officially severed diplomatic ties with Managua. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry condemned this action, deeming it a violation of international law and an attempt to undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty. Kyiv emphasized that the recognition is invalid and will not alter Ukraine’s internationally recognized borders. This decision follows Nicaragua’s previous support for Russia’s actions and recognition of separatist entities, reflecting a broader policy of Ukraine to strongly react to any infringement upon its territorial integrity.
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A constitutional amendment in Nicaragua has granted President Daniel Ortega and his wife, Rosario Murillo, absolute power. The amendment elevates Murillo to “co-president” and places legislative, judicial, and supervisory control under their authority. This reform, proposed by Ortega himself, also extends presidential terms from five to six years. Critics, such as UN human rights experts, condemn this move as destroying the rule of law and fundamental freedoms. The changes solidify the Ortega-Murillo regime’s control over all branches of Nicaraguan government.
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The UN Human Rights Committee ruled against Ecuador and Nicaragua for violating the human rights of three girls forced into motherhood at age 13, marking the first time the committee recognized forced motherhood as a human rights violation. This landmark decision compels both countries to provide reparations to the survivors and reform their laws to guarantee access to abortion in cases of rape or risk to life. The ruling sets a global precedent for the 173 states party to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, impacting countries’ obligations to protect children’s rights and reproductive health. Failure to comply could damage the countries’ international standing, although the committee lacks enforcement power.
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John Q. Hosedrinker