On July 11th, Russian authorities explained that selling their war tanks to Nicaragua is not an attempt to destabilize the region. However, criticism is, according to Russian authorities, a way to influence the upcoming elections.
Despite Russia’s “explanation”, Costa Rica is concerned about president Daniel Ortega’s policies.
Costa Rican authorities have said that they respect Nicaraguan sovereignty and investments in military matters, but they expect other Central American countries to support their concern.
It is not that they are going to use those weapons against us. We don’t see signs of that, but as neighbors, we are concerned that these resources are used against its population to fight poverty,
said chancellor Manuel González.
Russian media informed that the shipment contract for 50 Russian, T-72 tanks to Nicaragua was about 80 million dollars and it is part of the bilateral, military-technical cooperation.
Nicaragua and Costa Rica have a worrying relationship as neighbors. However, there will be more difficult times during Nicaraguan elections.