US Warns Panama Over China’s Influence on Canal, Threatens Action

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio calls Chinese control over the Panama Canal “unacceptable,” warns of potential US intervention if changes aren’t made.

US Threatens Action Over China’s Influence on Panama Canal

Panama City, February 3 – US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has issued a stern warning to Panama regarding China’s growing influence over the Panama Canal, calling the situation “unacceptable” and hinting that the US may take necessary measures if immediate changes are not implemented.

During a high-level meeting with Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino and Foreign Minister Javier Martinez in Panama City on Sunday, Rubio conveyed US President Donald Trump’s concerns over China’s involvement in the strategic waterway.

📌 According to State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce, Trump has determined that China’s control over the Panama Canal poses a threat to US national security.

“The President has made a preliminary determination that the current position of influence and control of the Chinese Communist Party over the Panama Canal area is a threat,” Bruce said in a statement.

📌 Rubio made it clear to Panama’s leadership that if the current situation persists, the US will take action to safeguard its historical rights under the Treaty concerning the Permanent Neutrality and Operation of the Panama Canal.

Trump: “We Are Going to Take It Back”

During his inaugural address on January 20, Trump strongly criticized China’s alleged influence over the Panama Canal, stating that the US will reclaim control over the crucial passage.

📌 Trump argued that the US was treated “unfairly” after it relinquished control of the canal in 1999.

“The United States spent more money than ever before on a project and lost 38 lives building the Panama Canal. We have been treated very badly from this foolish gift that should never have been made,” Trump declared.

📌 The US President claimed that China is “operating” the Panama Canal and hinted at potential intervention to protect American interests.

Panama Pushes Back: “The Canal Remains Under Panamanian Control”

In response to Trump’s remarks, Panamanian President Mulino issued a firm statement rejecting any foreign interference in the canal’s administration.

📌 Mulino emphasized that the Panama Canal remains under Panamanian control and no foreign nation, including China, has authority over its operations.

“The Canal is and will continue to operate under Panamanian control with respect for its permanent neutrality. There is no presence of any nation in the world that interferes with our administration,” Mulino stated.

📌 Panama reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the neutrality and sovereignty of the canal, dismissing any allegations of Chinese influence.

Why Is the Panama Canal So Important?

The Panama Canal, a vital trade route, handles nearly 6% of global maritime trade, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

📌 For the US, the canal is of strategic importance for global trade and military operations.
📌 China has heavily invested in Panama’s infrastructure, leading to concerns in Washington about Beijing’s expanding influence in the region.
📌 Trump’s administration has prioritized countering China’s presence in Latin America, making Panama a key battleground.

What’s Next? US-Panama Relations on the Edge

📌 Rubio’s visit to Panama marks his first trip as Secretary of State, and his Central America tour (including stops in El Salvador, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic) underscores Washington’s renewed focus on the region.
📌 The US may impose economic or diplomatic pressure on Panama if concerns over China’s role in the canal are not addressed.
📌 Panama, on the other hand, remains firm, stating that it will not bow to external interference.

With tensions rising, all eyes are on how Panama navigates growing US pressure while maintaining its trade partnerships, including those with China.

News Desk