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4mo ago

Trump's Inauguration Speech Draws Global Reactions and Panama Canal Tensions

President Trump's vow to reclaim the Panama Canal sparks international criticism, while other leaders offer mixed responses to his return to office.

Aerial view of Panama canal in the area of Pedro Miguel locks, in Panama City on December 13, 2022. - Every time a ship crosses the Miraflores Lock, the Panama Canal's most famous gate, 200 million liters of fresh water are discharged into the sea. This operation was repeated more than 14,000 times during 2022 in this strategic passageway linking the world's two largest oceans, whose main source of energy to move ships is rainwater.
Opening of the Panama Canal showing American Steamship SS Ancon leaving the west chamber of the upper Gatun locks and entering Gatun Lake, Panama, August 15, 1914.
Tourists stand on deck as the cruise ship Brilliance of the Seas enters the Miraflores locks on October 7, 2024.
Miraflores Locks

Overview

  • President Donald Trump, in his inaugural address, vowed to 'take back' the Panama Canal, citing alleged unfair treatment and unsubstantiated claims of Chinese control.
  • Panama's President José Raúl Mulino strongly rejected Trump's comments, asserting the canal's sovereignty and its critical role in Panama's national identity and economy.
  • World leaders responded variably to Trump's inauguration, with Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum emphasizing dialogue and defending Mexican immigrants, while Ukraine and Israel praised Trump's leadership qualities.
  • Trump's claims about the Panama Canal and other topics faced scrutiny, with fact-checkers debunking his assertions about Chinese involvement and discriminatory canal fees.
  • The Panama Canal, a vital global trade route, remains a significant source of revenue and pride for Panama, with officials warning of severe consequences if U.S. intervention were attempted.