President-elect Donald Trump threatened to reassert U.S. control over the Panama Canal, accusing Panama of charging excessive rates. He warned of potential Chinese influence on the passage managed by a Hong Kong-based company. Trump’s comments came during a speech in Arizona and a post on Truth Social, claiming the fees were unfair, and demanding that the canal be returned to the U.S. The Panamanian embassy did not respond, but local politicians criticized Trump’s statements. The canal, crucial for global trade, was handed over to Panama in 1999. It is unclear how Trump would regain control, with no recourse under international law. Trump has previously considered territorial expansion, including turning Canada into a U.S. state and buying Greenland. His aggressive rhetoric reflects a potential shift in U.S. diplomacy.
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Trump Criticizes Panama, Suggests Possible Demand for Canal Handover
