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“Donald Trump and his imperial delusion cannot claim even a single centimeter of land in Panama,” Mendez added, underscoring the strong opposition to Trump’s rhetoric.
The Panama Canal, a critical artery of global trade, was constructed by the United States in 1914. For decades, the U.S. controlled its operations until a landmark agreement brokered by former President Jimmy Carter in 1977 set the stage for Panama to take full control in 1999. While the transfer was seen as a triumph for Panamanian sovereignty, Trump’s recent comments have reopened old wounds.
During a rally in Arizona, Trump accused Panama of exploiting the canal’s operations to unfairly burden American ships. He claimed the fees imposed on U.S. vessels were excessive and accused Panama of allowing Chinese influence to seep into the canal’s management.
“Our Navy and commerce have been treated in a very unfair and injudicious way,” Trump asserted. “The fees being charged by Panama are ridiculous, highly unfair, especially knowing the extraordinary generosity that has been bestowed to Panama.”
Trump’s remarks didn’t stop there. He warned that the current situation “is going to stop,” emphasizing the United States’ significant interest in ensuring the canal operates securely and efficiently. “The United States has a big and vested interest in the secure, efficient, and reliable operation of the Panama Canal,” Trump declared.
His comments have drawn a sharp response from Panamanian officials, who view them as an affront to their nation’s sovereignty.
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Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino responded with a firm rejection of Trump’s stance. In a video posted on social media, Mulino stated, “Every square meter of the Panama Canal and its adjacent area belongs to Panama and will continue to belong to Panama.” He further emphasized that the terms of the agreement transferring the canal to Panama were “irreversible.”
In a fiery rebuttal to Mulino’s remarks, Trump quipped, “We’ll see about that!”
The escalating rhetoric underscores the delicate balance of international relations surrounding the Panama Canal. While Trump’s assertions reflect a broader push to prioritize U.S. interests, they have reignited tensions with a country that sees the canal as a symbol of its autonomy. For now, Panamanians remain steadfast, determined to protect their hard-won sovereignty over the iconic waterway.
As both nations dig in their heels, the world will be watching to see how this contentious issue unfolds.
