European Union denies judge Fredy Orellana's claim that sanctions were lifted

The European Union has refuted claims made by Guatemalan judge Fredy Orellana regarding the status of restrictive measures imposed against him. Orellana issued a statement asserting that the sanctions against him were lifted on January 13, 2026, citing Decision (PESC) 2026/88.

However, the European Union Delegation in Guatemala and official EU documentation clarify that the sanctions remain in effect. The EU stated that the measures against eight individuals and one entity in Guatemala have been extended. Specifically, Decision 2026/88 served to prolong the existing restrictive measures until January 13, 2027, rather than terminating them.

The sanctions, originally imposed in February 2024, target individuals accused of actions undermining democracy, the rule of law, or the peaceful transfer of power in Guatemala. Orellana remains on the list of sanctioned persons alongside other high-profile figures, including former Attorney General Consuelo Porras and several former officials from the Public Ministry.