In a move that’s got everyone talking, former President Donald Trump has drawn controversy— yet again. This time around, he’s threatening to take back control of the Panama Canal. The iconic waterway that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans is at the center of a new controversy.
Why this decision all of a sudden? It all started with a fee dispute. Panama recently increased the tolls for ships passing through the canal, and Trump is not having it. He claims the new fees are “outrageous” and “unfair” to American businesses and in typical Trump behaviour, he took to social media, announcing that if Panama doesn’t reduce the fees back to how it was, the U.S. might just have to step in and reclaim the canal.
Of course this statement was met with a lot of reactions. His loyal supporters are cheering him on, saying it’s about time someone stood up to Panama but detractors, on the other hand, have criticised his proclamation, calling it another one of his publicity stunts.
The Panama Canal was under the U.S. control until 1999, when it was handed over to Panama. Since then, it’s been a key route for global trade. The recent hike in fees is part of Panama’s strategy to boost revenue, but it’s has clearly annoyed certain individuals.
As at the time of filing this report, Panama is resolute in its decision and has defended its right to set tolls as it sees fit.
