Official statements from the Canadian government, U.S. government, or credible news outlets

Trump Threatens Panama Canal Takeover, Calls Trudeau 'Governor', Seeks Greenland Purchase

Dec 26, 2024, 02:35 PM

In a series of over 30 Christmas messages on his social media platform Truth Social, President-elect Donald Trump expressed intentions to reclaim control over the Panama Canal, alleging that China is exploiting the waterway and that Chinese soldiers are "illegally" operating there. He appointed a close campaign aide as ambassador to Panama. Trump suggested that Canada could become the 51st state of the United States, referencing high taxes in Canada and referring to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as "Governor." Additionally, Trump reiterated his desire to acquire Greenland, citing its importance to U.S. national security. In response, Panama's President Jose Raul Mulino rejected any negotiations over the canal, affirming that Panama has full control over the waterway and denying any Chinese interference. Latin American countries have shown solidarity with Panama in response to Trump's statements.