Official U.S. government foreign policy announcements or actions

Trump Threatens to Reclaim Panama Canal; Panama's President Defends Sovereignty

Dec 22, 2024, 08:07 PM

Donald Trump, the president-elect of the United States, has threatened to "demand that the Panama Canal be returned to the United States of America in full, quickly, and without question" if Panama does not lower the "exorbitant" tariffs imposed on American ships. Speaking at Turning Point USA's "American Fest," Trump criticized the current fees as "ridiculous" and expressed concerns over the canal falling into the "wrong hands," alluding to Chinese influence. He even suggested renaming it "The United States Canal." Panama's President, José Raúl Mulino, responded firmly, declaring that "every square meter of the canal is Panama's and will continue to be." The dispute has reignited discussions over the Torrijos-Carter Treaties, which transferred control of the canal to Panama. The situation has sparked reactions from other leaders, including Colombia's President Gustavo Petro, who voiced support for Panama's sovereignty. Trump also hinted at bringing back the Monroe Doctrine to counter foreign influence in the region.