Strategic Waterways Geopolitical Significance Historical Context Sovereignty Issues Port Locations Shipping Routes Strategic Importance Maritime Traffic Geopolitical Issues Geopolitical Importance U.S. Interests Strategic Chokepoints Maritime Trade Routes Maritime Trade U.S.-Panama Relations Canal Administration Canal Management Darien Gap Strategic Locations Port Cities U.S. Government Vessels Gatún Lake Ports Trade Hubs Major Ports Shipping Ports Port Operations Water levels U.S. Maritime Routes Historical Significance Trade Routes U.S. Control Sovereignty Shipping and Trade