Trump's Panamakanal Claims Escalate Tensions with Panama

Panama appeals to the UN after President Trump renews threats to reclaim the canal, accusing China of controlling the vital waterway.

President Donald Trump, in his inauguration speech, vowed to 'take back' the Panama Canal, citing alleged Chinese control and unfair fees for U.S. vessels.
Panama's government has formally complained to the United Nations, highlighting the violation of international law prohibiting threats against sovereign nations.
Panama's President José Raúl Mulino rejected Trump's claims, asserting the canal's neutrality and Panama's full sovereignty over its operation.
The Panamanian government initiated a review of a Hong Kong-linked port operator, but officials deny any Chinese influence over canal operations.
The Panama Canal, a critical global trade route, handles 14,000 ships annually, accounting for five percent of global maritime commerce.