In brief
Tensions arise as President-elect Trump threatens Panama, recalling a painful history and pushing the nation towards closer ties with China.
Amid a recent ceremony in Panama honoring those who protested against U.S. control of the Panama Canal 60 years ago, President-elect Donald Trump stirred controversy with his claim that China controlled the waterway and his threat to use military action to retake it. This rhetoric has sparked concern among Panamanians, with many reflecting on the tragic events of 1964, when protests for sovereignty ended in violence. Carlos E. Bonilla Cacó, whose brother was killed during those demonstrations, expressed a sentiment shared by many: the fight for Panamanian sovereignty remains a vital memory. President José Raúl Mulino remained resilient, asserting, “The canal is and will continue to be Panamanian.” As the nation grapples with Trump's statements, there may be a potential shift in diplomatic relations, with analysts suggesting it could push Panama closer to China.
