Staff Reports
The latest remark from President-elect Donald Trump about the Panama Canal has stirred the pot, and not just with a mere wave of the flag. Trump has insisted that the U.S. should consider reclaiming the waterway, which he calls a “vital national asset,” primarily due to the hefty usage fees that he has branded as a “ripoff.” It seems that Trump isn’t one to shy away from addressing what he perceives as gross injustices, especially when it comes to the financial dealings involving America and its neighbors.
At a recent Turning Point Action Conference in Phoenix, Arizona, Trump voiced his disbelief at Panama charging “ridiculous” fees for the passage through a canal that has been beneficial for both nations, but with one noticeable discrepancy in the equation: disproportionate benefits for Panama. His assessment points to the historical generosity of the United States, which conferred ownership of the Canal to Panama in 1999. It’s almost like giving someone the keys to your house and then being charged a toll to enter your own living room.
Trump suggests taking back Panama Canal over ‘unfair’ treatment and feeshttps://t.co/12QIlUkxNx pic.twitter.com/WFes32Y6Jc
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) December 23, 2024
Not one to mince words, Trump emphasized that if Panama fails to adhere to the “moral and legal” tenets of this generous arrangement, then the U.S. should go ahead and reclaim ownership of the Canal “quickly and without question.” This certainly raises eyebrows and might just make the Panamanian officials spill their coffee when they stop to think about Trump’s unwavering determination to put American interests first. After all, the Canal plays a critical role in U.S. commerce and national security, acting as a crucial conduit for shipping and naval deployments.
Trump also highlighted in his online posts that a well-maintained and secure Panama Canal is essential for ensuring that U.S. commerce flows smoothly. He likened the current fee structure to a high-stakes poker game where the house always seems to win, and the American taxpayers are forced to ante up. There’s no denying that over 70% of the ships traversing through the Canal are heading to or from U.S. ports, which makes one wonder why America should continue to fill Panama’s coffers without reaping its fair share.
Naturally, it wasn’t long before Panamanian officials brushed off Trump’s comments as “regrettable,” insisting that the Canal is, without question, within their sovereign territory. They are not accustomed to American political theatrics and seem determined to protect their slice of the pie, even if that pie is backed by U.S. dollars earned via commerce. The National Assembly representative from Panama took to social media to assert the nation’s sovereignty, which might come off as a bit melodramatic—after all, Americans have a long history of handling foreign relations with a blend of diplomacy and a firm stance.
While everyone is busy debating the claims and counterclaims, one thing remains crystal clear: Trump knows how to stir things up, especially when it comes to America’s standing in the world. The mere suggestion of reclaiming the Panama Canal is a reminder that sometimes, it takes a bold approach to hold on to what’s rightfully yours. In the great game of international relations, it’s often about making a splash that resonates at home, and Trump’s comments are sure to keep the dialogue lively.
