Trump’s Panama Canal Remarks Raise Geopolitical and Diplomatic Questions

Former President Trump’s comments on the Panama Canal’s ownership and toll policies have sparked concerns over U.S.-Panama relations and broader tensions with China.

Donald Trump has suggested the U.S. should reclaim control of the Panama Canal, citing dissatisfaction with the 1977 treaty that transferred it to Panama.
Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino strongly defended the canal’s sovereignty and dismissed Trump’s claims about discriminatory toll practices as false.
Trump’s remarks coincide with the 25th anniversary of Panama’s control over the canal, a critical economic and strategic asset for the nation.
The comments have drawn attention to China’s growing influence in the region, with U.S. officials expressing concerns over Chinese-operated ports near the canal.
Panama remains open to dialogue with the incoming Trump administration but has expressed confusion over the timing and intent of his statements.