ARIZONA: Former US President Donald Trump has threatened to regain US control of the Panama Canal, accusing Panama of charging exorbitant transit fees for using the canal.
Addressing his supporters in Arizona, Trump said he would not let the Panama Canal fall into the wrong hands and indicated a toughening of the US stance on the issue.
In his speech, Trump said, “Has anyone ever heard of the Panama Canal? We are being robbed everywhere, and the Panama Canal is no exception.”
He claimed that when the canal was handed over to Panama decades ago, there were certain conditions that must be met.
Trump added that the canal was given to Panama and its people, but there are legal provisions in it. If these principles are not followed, we will demand that the canal be returned to the United States in full and without question.
Trump also posted a photo on the social media platform “Truth Social” showing the American flag flying over the Panama Canal, with the caption: “Welcome to the United States of America Canal.”
Panama President Jose Raul Molino strongly rejected Trump’s statement, saying in a recorded message that there can be no compromise on Panama’s freedom and sovereignty.
He said that no external force has influence over the administration of the Panama Canal, and we will continue to defend our national interests.
President Molino responded to Trump’s accusations by saying that the fees charged for using the canal are determined transparently and are in line with global trade standards. He called Trump’s statement irresponsible and contrary to the principles of international relations.
The Panama Canal, which connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, was initially owned by the United States and was transferred to Panama under an agreement in 1999. The canal is a vital route for global trade and has great economic and strategic importance.
Trump’s statement has raised concerns in the international community. Analysts say the statement signals a possible aggressive shift in US diplomacy.
Experts say such threats could escalate tensions in the region and damage America’s reputation.
A potential dispute over the Panama Canal could also have an impact on global trade, which could affect the region’s economy.
