Top StoryUS

Trump Threatens to Take Back Panama Canal, Panama Rejects Claim

Trump Panama Canal/ Panama Canal sovereignty/ Trump foreign policy/ Turning Point USA/ Panama Canal fees/ Newslooks/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ President-elect Donald Trump suggested regaining control of the Panama Canal, claiming it was “foolishly given away,” sparking strong rebuke from Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino. The controversial remarks, made at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest, overshadowed discussions of Trump’s broader agenda and his cabinet appointments.

President-elect Donald Trump speaks at AmericaFest, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)

Trump’s Panama Canal Comments Spark Diplomatic Feud: Quick Look

Key Points

  • Trump’s Claim: President-elect Donald Trump criticized rising transit fees for the Panama Canal, suggesting the U.S. might “demand” its return.
  • Panama’s Response: President José Raúl Mulino called Trump’s comments an affront to Panama’s sovereignty, emphasizing that the canal is vital to the nation’s economy.
  • Historical Context: The U.S. relinquished control of the canal in 1999 under a treaty signed by President Jimmy Carter.
  • Fee Increases: Recent droughts affected canal operations, prompting higher fees to maintain and expand the waterway.
  • Social Media Response: Trump doubled down on his remarks, sharing an image of a U.S. flag in the canal zone with the caption, “Welcome to the United States Canal!”

Trump Threatens to Take Back Panama Canal, Panama Rejects Claim

Deep Look

Trump’s Provocative Remarks

Speaking at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest in Phoenix, Trump claimed the U.S. is being “ripped off” by transit fees at the Panama Canal, blaming its handover to Panama in 1999. He described the transfer as a “foolish” decision and suggested his administration might reclaim control if Panama doesn’t adjust its policies.

“If the principles, both moral and legal, of this magnanimous gesture of giving are not followed, then we will demand that the Panama Canal be returned to the United States of America,” Trump said.

Panama’s Stern Rebuttal

President José Raúl Mulino, elected on a pro-business platform, swiftly rejected Trump’s comments.

“Every square meter of the canal belongs to Panama and will continue to belong to Panama,” Mulino said in a video statement. He defended the fee increases, citing rising operational costs and the need for continuous investment in canal infrastructure.

Mulino also stressed that the canal contributes nearly 20% of Panama’s annual revenue, making it central to the nation’s sovereignty and economy.

Historical and Economic Context

The U.S. constructed the Panama Canal in the early 1900s, facilitating trade between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Under a 1977 treaty signed by President Jimmy Carter, the canal was transferred to Panama in 1999.

Recent droughts in Central America forced canal operators to limit daily ship transits, leading to increased fees. Though conditions have improved, the price hikes remain contentious for international shippers.

Trump’s Cabinet Announcements

At the same event, Trump introduced key members of his incoming administration:

Turning Point USA and Grassroots Influence

Trump’s appearance highlighted the growing clout of Turning Point USA, a conservative organization led by Charlie Kirk. Trump credited the group’s grassroots efforts for helping him win key battleground states, particularly among younger, Black, and Latino voters.

“You had Turning Point’s grassroots armies,” Trump said. “It’s not my victory, it’s your victory.”

Social Media and Backlash

Trump took to his social media platform to double down on his remarks, sharing a provocative image of a U.S. flag in the canal zone and captioning it, “Welcome to the United States Canal!” The move fueled further diplomatic tensions, with critics warning it could strain relations with Panama.

Future Implications

Trump’s comments foreshadow potential diplomatic challenges as he prepares to take office in January. With Republicans holding slim majorities in Congress, his administration faces significant hurdles in implementing its agenda while navigating international disputes.

More on US News

Previous Article
Biden Converts 37 Death Row Sentences to Life, Sparing Inmates Before Trump Era
Next Article
How Trump’s Economic Policies Could Shape the U.S. Economy in 2025

How useful was this article?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this article.

Latest News

Menu