Trump’s Controversial Remarks on the Panama Canal

U.S. President Donald Trump has once again made headlines with his remarks on the Panama Canal, criticizing China's influence over its operations. During his election campaign, Trump repeatedly stated that the United States should reclaim control of the canal, which was handed over to Panama in 1999. In his latest statement, Trump hinted at significant developments regarding the canal in the near future and suggested that forceful measures might be necessary, though he added that military intervention may not be required.

The Panama Canal Dispute

The Panama Canal is a crucial waterway for global trade, allowing commercial vessels to transit between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The U.S. originally built the canal in 1914 after securing a treaty with Panama but officially transferred control to the Panamanian government on December 31, 1999. Since then, the U.S. has repeatedly raised concerns over China’s growing involvement in the canal’s operations. Washington has accused Panama of imposing excessive fees on American ships and has warned that failure to reduce these costs could lead to the U.S. reclaiming control of the canal.

In his latest comments, Trump alleged that China is indirectly managing the Panama Canal and accused the Panamanian government of violating its agreement with the U.S. “We are going to take back the Panama Canal,” Trump asserted. However, Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino dismissed these remarks, stating that Panama is not afraid of U.S. aggression. He emphasized that his government is open to discussions with Washington regarding the issue but made it clear that Panama will maintain its sovereignty over the canal.