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Donald Trump has made strong statements about the possibility of the United States regaining full control of the Panama Canal. Understand the context.
Donald Trump, president-elect of the United States, caused controversy again. During an event of the Turning Point USA last Sunday (22), in Arizona, the president-elect stated that the Panama Canal must be returned to the EUA "completely, quickly and without question”, if the Central American country does not reduce the fees charged for the crossing.
Trump's criticism
Trump accused Panama of imposing “exorbitant prices” on American vessels, both commercial and naval. “The tariffs charged by Panama are ridiculous, extremely unfair. This complete exploitation of our country must stop immediately.“, he declared.
The promise to demand control of the canal marks a rare moment when a U.S. president has suggested pressuring another country to cede territory, raising questions about the direction of American diplomacy after his inauguration on Jan. 20.
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The speech, addressed to an audience of supporters, had global repercussions and provoked swift reactions from the Panamanian government.
Panama's response
Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino was categorical in stating that “every square meter"To Panama Canal belongs to your country.
In a video posted on X, Mulino stressed that Panamanian sovereignty and independence are not negotiable. He recalled the 1977 treaty signed between the two countries, which guaranteed the gradual transfer of the canal to Panamanians, completed in 1999.
"Panama respects other nations and demands respect. With the new US administration, I hope to maintain a good and respectful relationship.”, Mulino said. He also stressed that issues such as illegal immigration, drug trafficking and organized crime should be bilateral priorities, considering the security challenges faced by both countries.
The Importance of the Panama Canal to the United States
At 82 km long, the Panama Canal is one of the most important sea routes in the world, connecting 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 through the Strait of Magellan at the southern tip of South America.
For most of the 1903th century, the canal was under American administration, as a result of an agreement signed in XNUMX, which guaranteed the US permanent rights over the region in exchange for payment and assistance. military to Panama.
However, the treaty Torrijos-Carter, signed in 1977, began the gradual transfer of control to the Panamanians, culminating in 1999 with Panama's complete sovereignty over the waterway.
Currently, around 14 vessels cross the canal annually, transporting goods such as cars, fuel and food. The passage is also vital for military operations, being frequently used by the US Navy.
Historical and political context
Trump's statement reflects his campaign strategy of emphasizing the “American priority” in relation to international partners.
In addition to Panama, he also criticized Canada and Mexico for unfair trade practices, accusing them of facilitating the entry of drugs and illegal immigrants into the United States. Despite the criticism, Trump praised Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, calling her “awonderful woman".
The comments about the Panama Canal came a day after Trump posted on social media that he considers the waterway a “vital national asset” to the United States.
Although he did not specify how he would regain control of the canal, the president-elect's words raised concerns among diplomats and international relations experts.
A geopolitical tension
Experts say Trump's rhetoric could complicate relations between the US and Panama, as well as increase tension in Latin America.
While the president-elect is known for his combative stance, many wonder how far he will go with such threats once he takes office.
Meanwhile, Panama continues to assert 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.
