In a bold move, President-elect Donald Trump has voiced strong demands regarding the Panama Canal while addressing supporters at the Turning Point USA annual conference. He called on Panama to either slash fees for American shipping and naval vessels or return control of the canal to the U.S. "The fees being charged by Panama are ridiculous, highly unfair," he declared to the enthusiastic crowd.
Panama's President José Raúl Mulino quickly pushed back, stating that the canal belongs fully to Panama and that its sovereignty is non-negotiable. Trump's comments represent a rare challenge to another country's territorial integrity, hinting at possible shifts in U.S. foreign policy after he assumes office on January 20. He noted that unless shipping fees are reduced, the U.S. will demand the canal's return "immediately and without question."
The canal, a vital link between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, was under U.S. control until 1977, with Panama taking full control in 1999 after years of joint management. Trump's comments may resonate beyond Panama; he also condemned Canada and Mexico for what he labeled unfair trade practices.
While this was his first address since Congress passed a deal to avoid a government shutdown, Trump focused on his election victory, revisiting familiar themes like trade and immigration. His speech suggested ongoing divisions within the Republican Party, which were not fully addressed in his remarks. Amid the talk of trade, he even made a humorous nod to Elon Musk, denying any suggestions of transferring presidential power.
