(DCWatchdog.com) – In a bold statement in his typical style, President-elect Donald Trump has demanded control over the Panama Canal, saying it belongs to the United States.
See the tweet below!
Trump ramped up his criticism against Panama’s management of the Panama Canal, it left many wondering if the United States really reclaim control of this significant strategic waterway.
Trump’s stance comes amid allegations of exorbitant tolls, historic grievances, and looming foreign influence.
Trump has openly criticized the excessive fees Panama charges for U.S. vessels using the canal, labeling them a “rip-off” given the historical generosity shown by the U.S. towards Panama.
Tolls for the largest vessels can climb up to $500,000, a figure Trump finds unjustifiable, especially when the U.S. contributes about 75% of the canal’s cargo flow each year.
Thousands of Americans see this scenario as a rehashing of past grievances when the Panama Canal was handed over under President Jimmy Carter’s 1977 treaty.
Trump argues that this decision was “uninformed” and a disservice to U.S. interests.
His dissatisfaction led him to consider the U.S. reclaiming ownership should Panama not lower the fees.
Moreover, Trump has raised alarms over rising Chinese influence near the canal.
A Chinese company based in Hong Kong currently controls two ports nearby, a move seen as a potential threat to U.S. national security.
Trump declared, “It was solely for Panama to manage, not China, or anyone else. We would and will NEVER let it fall into the wrong hands!”
The economic implications of the canal are undeniable.
Not only is it a vital transit route for nearly 5% of global maritime traffic, but it also significantly affects U.S. commerce and military logistics.
Trump is adamant that the canal is a crucial national asset, fundamental to the swift deployment of the Navy and vital to America’s economy.
“The Panama Canal is considered a VITAL National Asset for the United States, due to its critical role to America’s Economy and National Security. A secure Panama Canal is crucial for U.S. Commerce, and rapid deployment of the Navy, from the Atlantic to the Pacific, and drastically cuts shipping times to U.S. ports,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
Trump’s ultimatum to Panama—lower the tolls or face potential U.S. intervention—has brought on skeptical observations from analysts.
They argue that legal treaty provisions might not support such a move.
Nonetheless, Trump’s rhetoric resonates with many, reflecting broader frustrations over international agreements perceived as unfavorable to U.S. interests.
While Trump vocally condemns Panama’s toll practices, he simultaneously faces scrutiny over allegations of his business dealings in the country.
His companies have been accused of tax evasion in Panama, claims they deny.
Such allegations add complexity to an already tense discourse between the two nations.
The Panama Canal was built by America and 38,000 Americans lost their lives in the process. Jimmy Carter gave it away for $1.00. President Trump is going to take it back. 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/2NI8DIy98X
— SemperFi-USA (@Blitzntj76) December 22, 2024
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