President Donald Trump has proposed that both military and commercial vessels from the United States should enjoy complimentary passage through the strategically important Panama and Suez canals. These waterways play a crucial role in facilitating global trade and military operations.
“Those Canals would not exist without the United States of America,” Trump stated in a post on Truth Social late Saturday.
In his remarks, Trump expressed that he has instructed Secretary of State Marco Rubio to address and formalize this request promptly. The former president has previously voiced concerns regarding the management of the Panama Canal by Panama, suggesting that the U.S. might consider reclaiming control over the waterway. This canal, built by the U.S. in the early 20th century, was handed back to Panama in 1977.
Concerns over foreign influence
In December, Trump criticized China for allegedly increasing its influence over the management of the Panama Canal, labeling the fees imposed for passage as “exorbitant.” He has persistently highlighted issues related to the costs incurred by vessels transiting these vital canals.
The Panama Canal serves as a crucial link between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, while the Suez Canal connects the Mediterranean Sea with the Red Sea. Both canals are indispensable for international commerce, significantly reducing shipping times and costs. They also provide a strategic advantage for military operations, allowing for rapid deployment across oceans and enhancing geopolitical leverage.
Response from Panama’s leadership
In response to Trump’s comments, Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino took to X to clarify that the management of transit and associated costs through the Panama Canal is governed by the Panama Canal Authority (ACP), which operates independently. He asserted, “There is no agreement to the contrary,” indirectly addressing Trump’s assertions.