US Troop Deployment to Panama Sparks Sovereignty Concerns

Panama's opposition denounces a new security pact with the US, citing fears of diminished sovereignty and historical grievances.

President Trump confirmed the deployment of US military personnel to Panama under a recently signed security pact.
The US claims the increased military presence is aimed at countering Chinese influence over the Panama Canal, a critical global trade route.
The agreement allows US troops access to three former military bases, raising concerns about the re-establishment of a US military footprint in Panama.
Panamanian opposition leaders, including Ricardo Lombana, describe the pact as a 'camouflaged invasion' that undermines national sovereignty.
Historical tensions over past US military actions in Panama, including the 1989 Operation Just Cause, fuel public criticism and protests against the government's handling of the deal.