In a move that has sparked widespread criticism and concern, President-elect Donald Trump threatened to reassert U.S. control over the Panama Canal, accusing Panama of imposing excessive tolls on the strategic waterway. The Panama Canal, a vital shipping route connecting the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, has long been under Panamanian sovereignty.
In a Truth Social post Saturday evening, Trump went so far as to suggest that the canal might fall into “the wrong hands,” hinting at potential Chinese influence. However, this claim appears unfounded. While a subsidiary of Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison Holdings manages ports at the canal’s entrances, China neither controls nor administers the waterway itself.
A Departure from Diplomatic Norms
Trump’s comments mark an extraordinary departure from conventional U.S. diplomacy, as he appeared to threaten the sovereignty of a friendly nation. Such rhetoric underscores Trump’s willingness to adopt a combative, transactional approach to foreign policy, one that has often alienated allies and raised concerns about America’s role on the global stage.
“The fees being charged by Panama are ridiculous,” Trump wrote, framing the canal as a U.S. entitlement. “If the principles, both moral and legal, of this magnanimous gesture of giving are not followed, then we will demand that the Panama Canal be returned to us, in full, and without question.”
Revisiting History
The United States played a pivotal role in the construction of the canal and administered the surrounding territory for decades. However, the 1977 Torrijos-Carter Treaties facilitated the gradual transfer of the canal to Panama, culminating in full Panamanian control in 1999. This agreement has been a cornerstone of U.S.-Panama relations, representing a shared commitment to sovereignty and cooperation.
Trump’s suggestion of reversing this arrangement ignores the legal and diplomatic framework established over decades. It also overlooks the fact that the canal is a critical artery for global trade, accounting for 2.5% of global seaborne commerce and serving as a lifeline for U.S. imports and exports.
Empty Threats or a Dangerous Precedent?
Critics have questioned how Trump would feasibly regain control of the canal. Under international law, the United States has no legitimate claim to the waterway, and any attempt to assert control would likely provoke a fierce backlash from Panama and the international community.
This is not the first time Trump has floated the idea of territorial expansion. In recent weeks, he has mused about annexing Canada and, during his first term, expressed interest in purchasing Greenland from Denmark—a proposal that was swiftly dismissed.
The Bottom Line
Trump’s Panama Canal remarks signal a troubling return to nationalist posturing and territorial ambitions. While the practicality of such threats remains dubious, the rhetoric risks undermining U.S. credibility and straining relations with key allies. At a time when global cooperation is paramount, Trump’s comments could provoke unnecessary tensions and create lasting diplomatic rifts.
The Panamanian government has yet to respond, but the international community will be watching closely to see how this latest chapter in U.S. foreign policy unfolds.
