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Donald Trump Made Strong Statements on the Possibility of the United States Regaining Full Control of the Panama Canal. Understand the Context.
Donald Trump, the elected president of the United States, sparked controversy again. During a Turning Point USA event last Sunday (22) in Arizona, the elected president stated that the Panama Canal should be returned to the U.S. “completely, quickly, and without question” if the Central American country does not reduce the fees charged for crossing.
Trump’s Criticism
Trump accused Panama of imposing “exorbitant prices” on American vessels, both commercial and naval. “The fees charged by Panama are ridiculous, extremely unfair. This complete exploitation of our country will stop immediately,” he stated.
The promise to demand control of the canal marks a rare moment when a U.S. president suggests pressuring another country to cede territory, raising doubts about the direction of American diplomacy after his inauguration, scheduled for January 20.
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The speech, directed at an audience of supporters, resonated globally and provoked swift reactions from the Panamanian government.
The Response from Panama
The president of Panama, José Raúl Mulino, was categorical in stating that “every square meter” of the Panama Canal belongs to his country.
In a video posted on X, Mulino emphasized that Panamanian sovereignty and independence are non-negotiable. He recalled the 1977 treaty signed between the two countries, which ensured the gradual transfer of the canal to Panamanians, completed in 1999.
“Panama respects other nations and demands respect. With the new U.S. government, I hope to maintain a good respectful relationship,” declared Mulino. He also highlighted that issues like illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and organized crime should be bilateral priorities, given the security challenges faced by both countries.
The Importance of the Panama Canal to the United States
Stretching 82 km, the Panama Canal is one of the most important maritime routes in the world, linking the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Since its inauguration in the early 20th century, the waterway has transformed global trade, allowing vessels to save time and costs by avoiding the long route around the Strait of Magellan at the southern tip of South America.
For nearly the entire 20th century, the canal was under American administration, as a result of an agreement made in 1903, which granted the U.S. permanent rights over the region in exchange for payment and military assistance to Panama.
However, the Torrijos-Carter treaty, signed in 1977, initiated the gradual transfer of control to the Panamanians, culminating in 1999 with the complete sovereignty of Panama over the waterway.
Currently, around 14,000 vessels transit the canal annually, transporting goods such as cars, fuels, and food. The passage is also vital for military operations, being frequently used by the American navy.
Historical and Political Context
Trump’s statement reflects his campaign strategy of emphasizing “American priority” regarding international partners.
Besides Panama, he also criticized Canada and Mexico for unfair trade practices, accusing them of facilitating the entry of drugs and illegal immigrants into the U.S. Despite the criticisms, Trump praised Mexico’s president, Claudia Sheinbaum, calling her a “wonderful woman.”
The comments about the Panama Canal came a day after Trump posted on his social media that he considers the waterway a “vital national asset” for the United States.
Although he did not specify how he would regain control of the canal, the elected president’s words raised concerns among diplomats and international relations experts.
A Geopolitical Tension
Experts point out that Trump’s rhetoric may complicate relations between the U.S. and Panama, as well as increase tension in Latin America.
While the elected president is known for his combative stance, many wonder how far he will take such threats once he takes office.
Meanwhile, Panama continues to reaffirm its sovereignty over the canal, which, for the country, is a symbol of independence and national pride. With Trump’s inauguration approaching, the coming weeks promise to be decisive for the future of relations between the two countries.
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