Diplomatic relations between Spain and Nicaragua have reached a new low in recent weeks, marked by the mutual expulsion of ambassadors and diplomats. This unprecedented escalation reflects a deepening crisis and resurfaces a history of accumulated grievances between the two nations.
The Spanish government announced the expulsion of the Nicaraguan ambassador in Madrid, along with another member of the embassy staff. This decision came in direct response to the Nicaraguan authorities’ expulsion of Spanish Ambassador Sergio Barea Salva and a second official, Miguel Mahiques Nuñez, days prior, without offering any official justification.
Madrid Cites ‘Reciprocity’
The Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in an official release that the action was based on the principle of reciprocity, deeming the expulsion of Spanish diplomats from Nicaragua as “unjustified.” The ministry emphasized that the Spanish government “will continue to work to maintain the best possible relations with the Nicaraguan people,” despite the existing diplomatic tensions.
The expelled Spanish ambassador had assumed his post in Managua in early December. Having served for less than two months, the Spanish embassy received notification of the expulsion order, without explanation from President Daniel Ortega’s government. Subsequently, the two Spanish diplomats departed Nicaraguan territory for Madrid immediately after the decision.
A History of Tension
This diplomatic confrontation is not an isolated incident, but rather an extension of ongoing tensions between the two countries in recent years. In 2021, Spain recalled its ambassador to Nicaragua for consultation. However, Nicaraguan authorities later refused to allow her to return to her post, leading to a similar diplomatic crisis at the time.
Ortega Regime Faces Growing International Isolation
These developments occur within a broader context of increasing international isolation for the Daniel Ortega regime, which governs the country alongside his wife and Vice President, Rosario Murillo. The Nicaraguan regime has previously expelled representatives from other international bodies, further straining its relationships with the international community.
