Trump Sparks Controversy with Bold Remarks on Panama Canal, Greenland, and Canada Acquisition Plans

US President-elect hints at military and economic strategies to gain control over key territories, reigniting global debates.

Florida [US], January 8: In a controversial press conference at Mar-a-Lago, US President-elect Donald Trump refused to rule out the use of military or economic force to secure control over the Panama Canal, Greenland, and even hinted at “economic coercion” to integrate Canada as the 51st state of the United States.

Addressing journalists, Trump stated that “economic security” necessitates control over these regions, emphasizing their strategic and geopolitical importance.

“No, I can’t assure you on either of those two, but I can say this, we need them for economic security,” Trump said when questioned about potential military or economic measures.

On Greenland and Panama Canal

Trump hinted at imposing high tariffs on Denmark if they refuse to relinquish Greenland and suggested that Greenland’s population could vote for independence or integration with the US.

“I’m talking about protecting the free world,” Trump said, reinforcing his stance on acquiring Greenland.

Regarding the Panama Canal, Trump heavily criticized former US President Jimmy Carter for returning control of the canal to Panama, calling it a “disgrace.”

“What took place at the Panama Canal, Jimmy Carter gave it to them for $1, and they were supposed to treat us well,” Trump remarked, expressing regret over the handover deal.

On Canada Becoming the 51st State

When asked about using military force to annex Canada, Trump clarified his preference for economic strategies over military action.

“No, economic force,” he stated, further suggesting that eliminating the “artificial border” would be beneficial for national security and economic integration.

In recent weeks, Trump has repeatedly floated the idea of Canada becoming the 51st US state, leveraging Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s resignation announcement to reiterate his stance.

Renaming the Gulf of Mexico

In another surprising remark, Trump proposed renaming the “Gulf of Mexico” to the “Gulf of America”.

“We’re going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, which has a beautiful ring. It covers a lot of territory, and it’s appropriate,” he declared.

Criticism of Biden Administration

Trump also criticized the Biden administration’s handling of the transition process, accusing them of obstructing his planned reforms.

“They say we’re going to have a smooth transition. All they do is talk. And then they take 625 million acres and essentially landmark it, so you can’t ever drill there again. Well, we’re going to be drilling soon,” Trump asserted.

Electoral Certification and Transition

These remarks come just a day after US Congress certified Trump’s election victory, with no objections raised during the official tally. Trump secured 312 electoral votes, while Kamala Harris received 226 votes.

Vice President-elect JD Vance was present during the certification process, alongside notable lawmakers including Senator Amy Klobuchar and Senator Deb Fischer.

As Trump prepares for his January 20 inauguration, his bold declarations are already sparking debates and raising concerns about US foreign policy under his administration.

Key Takeaways:

• Trump suggests military and economic measures for strategic control over Panama Canal and Greenland.
• Proposes economic coercion for Canada’s integration as the 51st US state.
• Criticizes Jimmy Carter’s Panama Canal handover deal.
• Plans to rename Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America.
• Critiques Biden administration for obstructing transition reforms.

With Trump set to return to the White House, the world watches closely to see how these bold declarations will translate into policy.