Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino firmly rejected President-elect Donald Trump’s recent suggestion that the United States might reclaim control of the Panama Canal. Trump had voiced his concerns on his Truth Social platform, calling the fees charged by Panama for U.S. ships passing through the canal “ridiculous” and expressing unease over the potential influence of China on the canal’s operations. He warned that if Panama could not ensure the canal’s secure, efficient, and reliable operation, the U.S. might demand its return.
In response, Mulino clarified that the Panama Canal is sovereign Panamanian territory, stating that it will remain under Panama’s control. He emphasized that the canal operates independently of any foreign power, including China, the U.S., or the European Union. Mulino also expressed his hope for a respectful relationship with the incoming U.S. administration.
The Panama Canal, which was completed by the United States in 1914, was transferred to Panama under the Torrijos-Carter Treaties, ending U.S. control in 1999.
FAQs:
What did President-elect Donald Trump say about the Panama Canal? President-elect Donald Trump criticized the fees Panama charges U.S. ships using the Panama Canal, calling them “ridiculous” and “highly unfair.” He also voiced concerns about China’s influence over the canal and warned that the U.S. might demand the return of the canal if Panama failed to ensure its secure and efficient operation.
How did Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino react to Trump’s statements? President José Raúl Mulino rejected Trump’s suggestion and stated that the Panama Canal is sovereign Panamanian territory. He reaffirmed that Panama retains full control over the canal and will not negotiate its sovereignty with any foreign power.
