Trump's demand for reduced fees from Panama and a potential return of control over the canal sparks international debate.
**Trump Claims Panama Canal as a 'Vital National Asset' Amid Trade Tensions**
**Trump Claims Panama Canal as a 'Vital National Asset' Amid Trade Tensions**
President-elect's remarks stir controversy over sovereignty and trade fees.
The president-elect drew attention to the Panama Canal during his speech at Turning Point USA’s annual conference in Arizona, questioning Panama’s fees for American shipping and military vessels. He labeled these costs as “exorbitant” and threatened direct action if his demands are not met. “The fees being charged by Panama are ridiculous, highly unfair,” he declared, reaffirming his stance that he would address what he sees as a complete “rip-off” upon taking office.
Panama's president, José Raúl Mulino, swiftly rebuffed Trump’s assertions, stating, “every square metre” of the canal rightfully belongs to Panama and emphasizing that such matters of sovereignty are non-negotiable. Trump’s provocative remarks signal a potential shift in American foreign policy and its approach to international relations.
The Panama Canal is a crucial channel for global maritime trade, linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans and facilitating the passage of thousands of vessels annually. Control over the canal was fully transitioned from the U.S. to Panama in 1999 after decades of American governance, and Trump’s comments hearken back to a bygone era of U.S. interventionism.
In addition to targeting Panama, Trump expressed concerns over trade practices by both Canada and Mexico, while celebrating the support from Turning Point USA, which played a significant role in his 2024 campaign. As he rallied his supporters, issues dominating his platform — immigration, crime, and international trade — came to the forefront.
While addressing attendees, Trump also dismissed claims about ceding presidential power to tech mogul Elon Musk, reasserting his focus and authority as he gears up for his administration. Despite discussions of intra-party rifts, the conference highlighted significant backing for his presidency. The world watches closely as Trump’s presidency approaches, considering its potential impact on existing trade relationships and sovereignty discussions.
Panama's president, José Raúl Mulino, swiftly rebuffed Trump’s assertions, stating, “every square metre” of the canal rightfully belongs to Panama and emphasizing that such matters of sovereignty are non-negotiable. Trump’s provocative remarks signal a potential shift in American foreign policy and its approach to international relations.
The Panama Canal is a crucial channel for global maritime trade, linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans and facilitating the passage of thousands of vessels annually. Control over the canal was fully transitioned from the U.S. to Panama in 1999 after decades of American governance, and Trump’s comments hearken back to a bygone era of U.S. interventionism.
In addition to targeting Panama, Trump expressed concerns over trade practices by both Canada and Mexico, while celebrating the support from Turning Point USA, which played a significant role in his 2024 campaign. As he rallied his supporters, issues dominating his platform — immigration, crime, and international trade — came to the forefront.
While addressing attendees, Trump also dismissed claims about ceding presidential power to tech mogul Elon Musk, reasserting his focus and authority as he gears up for his administration. Despite discussions of intra-party rifts, the conference highlighted significant backing for his presidency. The world watches closely as Trump’s presidency approaches, considering its potential impact on existing trade relationships and sovereignty discussions.
