Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Situation in Nicaragua
In Simple Terms
The President is keeping a national emergency in place for one more year because of problems in Nicaragua. These problems are seen as a threat to the U.S.
Summary
On November 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued a notice to continue the national emergency regarding Nicaragua for another year. This emergency was initially declared on November 27, 2018, under Executive Order 13851, due to the threat posed by the Nicaraguan government's actions against its citizens and democratic institutions. The continuation is based on ongoing issues such as the regime's violent repression of protests, undermining of democracy, and economic destabilization, which are considered threats to U.S. national security and foreign policy. This decision ensures that the measures addressing these threats remain in effect.
Official Record
Federal Register PublishedSigned by the President
November 20, 2025
November 24, 2025
Document #2025-21030
Analysis & Impact
💡 How This May Affect You
- Working families and individuals: Potential price increases on imported goods from Nicaragua could affect household budgets.
- Small business owners: Businesses relying on Nicaraguan imports may face supply chain disruptions or increased costs.
- Students and recent graduates: Limited impact unless involved in international studies or work related to Nicaragua.
- Retirees and seniors: Little direct impact unless dependent on Nicaraguan products or investments.
- Different regions (urban, suburban, rural): Urban areas might notice more effects due to diverse import needs; rural areas less so.
🏢 Key Stakeholders
- Nicaraguan government faces increased international pressure and potential economic isolation.
- U.S. foreign policy agencies tasked with implementing and monitoring sanctions.
- Nicaraguan civil society groups remain vulnerable to government repression and violence.
- U.S. businesses with interests in Nicaragua may experience operational and financial challenges.
- Human rights organizations advocate for stronger international intervention and humanitarian support.
📈 What to Expect
Short-term (3–12 months):
- Increased sanctions on Nicaraguan officials.
- Heightened diplomatic tensions between the U.S. and Nicaragua.
- Limited economic aid to Nicaraguan government.
Long-term (1–4 years):
- Continued deterioration of Nicaragua's democratic institutions.
- Possible regional instability affecting Central American neighbors.
- Potential rise in migration from Nicaragua to the U.S.
📚 Historical Context
- Similar to Reagan's 1985 national emergency on Nicaragua's destabilizing activities.
- Builds on Executive Orders 13851 (2018) and 14088 (2022) to address ongoing threats.
- Continues trend of using national emergencies for foreign policy, like Bush's 2003 Iraq situation.
- Highlights ongoing U.S. concern over Nicaragua's democratic backsliding since Ortega's return in 2007.
- Notable for its longevity; reflects persistent U.S. intervention in Latin American politics.
Related Actions
Nov 07, 2025
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