This bill expands and renews economic sanctions against Nicaragua's government under existing sanctions laws, extending them through December 31, 2035, unless the country meets democratic reform conditions earlier. The sanctions target individuals and entities involved in corruption, human rights abuses, and suppression of religious freedom and opposition groups, and now include the gold sector of Nicaragua's economy and anyone providing goods or services to support Russia or Iran. The bill responds to concerns about Nicaragua's 2021 disputed election, crackdowns on civil society and religious organizations, and the government's July 2026 announcement that it would no longer hold competitive elections. The State Department must report within 90 days and annually for three years on how sanctions are being implemented, and must also assess what conditions would be necessary for eventual democratic transition in Nicaragua, including judicial reform, fair elections administration, and police reform. The sanctions can be lifted early if the Nicaraguan government commits to holding competitive, internationally-observed elections, stops violence against civilians, and allows independent investigations into protest killings.
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