Trump Sparks Controversy with Bold Remarks on Panama Canal Control

US President-elect Donald Trump calls the Panama Canal a ‘vital US asset,’ reigniting debates over sovereignty and security.

Washington DC [US], December 24: US President-elect Donald Trump stirred global attention with a provocative social media post on Truth Social, calling the Panama Canal a “vital national asset” for the United States and warning against its control falling into “wrong hands.”

In a post featuring an image of the US flag flying over the Panama Canal, Trump captioned it: “Welcome to the United States Canal!”

This follows Trump’s earlier strong-worded statement where he emphasized the strategic importance of the Panama Canal to US national security and commerce, while criticizing former President Jimmy Carter for transferring control of the canal to Panama in 1977.

Trump’s Bold Claims on Panama Canal

“The Panama Canal is considered a VITAL National Asset for the United States, due to its critical role in America’s Economy and National Security,” Trump stated.

He further elaborated on the canal’s importance in reducing shipping times and enabling rapid naval deployment.

“The United States is the Number One user of the Canal, with over 70% of all transits heading to, or from, US ports,” he added.

Highlighting the human and financial cost of building the canal, Trump noted:
“38,000 American men died during construction from mosquito-borne diseases. Teddy Roosevelt understood the strength of Naval Power and Trade, and yet President Jimmy Carter foolishly gave it away.”

Trump also raised concerns over growing Chinese influence in Panama, suggesting that control of the canal by foreign powers poses a significant threat to US interests.

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Panama Responds Firmly

In response to Trump’s remarks, Panama’s President Jose Raul Mulino issued a sharp rebuttal.

“Every square meter of the Panama Canal and the surrounding area belongs to Panama and will continue belonging so,” Mulino declared in a recorded message.

He dismissed allegations of Chinese influence and clarified that fees and operations are independently managed in alignment with Panama’s sovereignty.

“Our decisions are not made on a whim, and we are committed to safeguarding the canal’s integrity,” he added.

The Panama Canal plays a critical role in the nation’s economy, contributing nearly 20% of the government’s annual revenue.

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A Pattern of Bold Statements

This isn’t the first time Trump has made sweeping geopolitical remarks. Recently, he suggested that Canada could become the 51st US state, citing economic benefits and reduced military costs for Canadians.

“Many Canadians want Canada to become the 51st State. They would save massively on taxes and military protection. I think it is a great idea. 51st State!!!” Trump posted on Truth Social.

Such statements continue to spark intense debates on Trump’s foreign policy vision as he prepares to return to the White House on January 20, 2025.

The international community now watches closely as Trump’s rhetoric sets the stage for what could be a contentious diplomatic chapter between the US, Panama, and other global players.

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