Nicaraguan bishop denounces purchase of 50 Russian tanks
May 05, 2016
A Nicaraguan bishop has denounced President Daniel Ortega’s decision to purchase 50 Russian tanks for $80 million.
“Nicaragua is not at war, Nicaragua does not want war, Nicaragua does not need war, nor heavy combat weapons,” Bishop Rolando Jose Álvarez Lagos of Matagalpa preached on May 1, according to the Fides news agency.
“We recognize the participation of the army in Nicaragua in humanitarian work, as the fact of protecting agricultural production, cattle raising and even to bring medical assistance to the population, but the militarization of some rural communities has caused fear and panic among the rural population,” the prelate added.
Following the prelate’s comments, Ortega lashed out at critics of the purchase.
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Further information:
- 50 Russian battle tanks headed to Nicaragua, sparking concerns in Central America (Costa Rica Times)
- Mgr. Alvarez Lagos:"Nicaragua is not at war! Buying tanks is contrary to our reality" (Fides)
- Nicaraguan President Silences Critics of Russian Tank Purchase (PanAm Post)
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