Panama Canal Authority Disputes U.S. Claim of Free Passage for Government Vessels

The Panama Canal Authority asserts it has not waived transit fees, contradicting a U.S. State Department announcement that claimed cost-saving measures for American ships.

The U.S. State Department announced that U.S. government vessels could transit the Panama Canal without fees, claiming the move would save millions annually.
The Panama Canal Authority refuted this claim, stating it has not made any adjustments to tolls and retains authority over fee-setting policies.
Panama expressed a willingness to engage in dialogue with U.S. officials about the transit of American warships through the canal.
President Trump has reiterated his ambition to regain U.S. control of the canal, citing concerns over Chinese influence and alleged excessive fees.
Panama's President José Raúl Mulino emphasized that the canal remains under Panamanian control and dismissed accusations of foreign interference.