In a provocative move, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has declared his intention to reclaim ownership of the Panama Canal, a strategic waterway that has been under Panamanian control since the end of the 20th century. Trump criticized Panama, accusing the nation of treating the U.S. \"in a very unfair and injudicious way,\" and vowed that the \"complete 'rip-off' of our country will immediately stop.\"
Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino swiftly countered these claims, asserting, \"Every square meter of the Panama Canal and its adjacent area belongs to Panama and will continue belonging to Panama.\" Mulino emphasized that the toll-setting process for the Canal is transparent, public, and free from individual manipulation, firmly rejecting any notions of reducing tolls specifically for U.S. ships.
On January 7, 2024, Trump escalated the rhetoric by refusing to rule out the use of military or economic measures to achieve his goals regarding both the Panama Canal and Greenland. This stance is part of a broader expansionist agenda that Trump has championed since winning the election on November 5, 2024.
Residents of Panama remain cautious amidst these developments. Luis Gomez, a local photographer, expressed skepticism over Trump's statements, saying they \"do not make sense and seem a bit illogical.\" Gomez advocated for peaceful resolution through communication, negotiation, and clarification, highlighting the community's desire to avoid conflict.
Reference(s):
We Talk: Panamanian residents on Trump's ambitions for Panama Canal
cgtn.com
