Trump’s Strong Stance on the Panama Canal: Calling for Fair Treatment
In a bold statement recently, President-elect Donald Trump highlighted his concerns regarding U.S. relations with Panama, particularly focused on the Panama Canal. He accused the Panamanian government of charging unfairly high fees to American vessels and hinted at taking measures to regain control over this vital asset.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump expressed that the Panama Canal is a significant national asset for the United States. He emphasized that its purpose is tied directly to U.S. economic interests and national security. “A secure Panama Canal is crucial for U.S. commerce,” he noted, reminding supporters that around 70% of all canal transits are connected to U.S. ports. The importance of this waterway cannot be overstated, especially considering its role in facilitating rapid deployment of Navy forces between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Among Trump’s comments, he pointed out the considerable sacrifices made by the United States to create the canal, which opened its doors 110 years ago. During its construction, the country faced staggering challenges, including the tragic loss of 38,000 American lives due to diseases like malaria and yellow fever. Trump lamented how President Jimmy Carter, during his administration, transferred control of the canal to Panama for merely one dollar. He asserted that the deal was intended for Panama to govern the canal, not for foreign influences to exploit it, highlighting ongoing concerns about Chinese interests in the vicinity.
The former president also remarked that the fees imposed on American navigation through the canal are unreasonable, especially given the historical generosity shown to Panama by the United States. “This complete ‘rip-off’ of our Country will immediately stop,” Trump declared, suggesting a willingness to take action should the situation not improve.
Speaking at the AmericaFest event, Trump voiced impatience over the perceived exploitation, declaring, “we’re being ripped off at the Panama Canal like we’re being ripped off everywhere else.” His remarks were echoed online, as conservative commentators rallied behind his views. One user called for an immediate halt to what they described as a “complete ripoff,” referring to China’s involvement in managing certain canal entrances.
Despite Trump’s strong stance, Panamanian officials reacted firmly to his comments. President José Raúl Mulino took to social media to reject Trump’s allegations, asserting his country’s claims over the canal. "Every square meter of the Panama Canal and its adjoining zone is Panama’s and will remain so," Mulino stated, underscoring the sovereignty of Panama as a non-negotiable principle.
The U.S. invested significantly to construct the canal between 1904 and 1914, eventually turning control over to Panama after agreeing to terms in the 1977 treaties. The canal itself remains a critical junction for maritime trade, with around 14,000 ships navigating its waters annually, accounting for 2.5% of global maritime traffic.
As Trump’s comments stirred discussions, many are left pondering the feasibility of his ideas regarding the canal’s future. Would he push for changes in policy to secure better terms for U.S. shipping through the Panama Canal? How realistic are his claims to reclaim control over the canal? Skeptics suggest that such statements might be more rhetorical than actionable, comparing them to previous offhand remarks made during his presidency.
Going forward, it’s clear that the Panama Canal remains an important topic of discussion for both U.S. economic and security interests. With international relations becoming increasingly complex, ensuring fair treatment and access for American interests will be a priority for Trump’s administration if he takes action in this regard. As events unfold, many will be watching closely, waiting to see how these dynamics may evolve in the future.
