Trump’s remarks underscore his intent to prioritize national interests and may lead to a reevaluation of international agreements influencing American sovereignty.
Trump Calls for Return of Panama Canal, Sparking National Debate
Trump Calls for Return of Panama Canal, Sparking National Debate
In renewed statements on TruthSocial, President-elect Trump has demanded the return of the Panama Canal, framing it as critical for U.S. interests and security.
In a series of posts on TruthSocial, President-elect Donald Trump has reignited a long-standing debate surrounding the Panama Canal, describing it as a "vital national asset" that should be returned to the United States. Trump asserted that if moral and legal principles are disregarded, the canal should be "returned to us, in full, and without question."
The Panama Canal, an engineering marvel completed in the early 20th century under President Theodore Roosevelt, transformed global shipping by significantly reducing transit time between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Trump highlighted the sacrifices made during its construction, pointing out that "38,000 American men died from infected mosquitos in the jungles during construction." He characterized the canal as a “Wonder of the Modern World” that played a crucial role in establishing America's status as a powerful nation.
Trump took direct aim at former President Jimmy Carter, critiquing his signing of the Torrijos-Carter Treaties that led to the canal's transfer to Panama in 1999. He labeled this decision “foolish,” arguing that it provided Panama an opportunity to impose what he described as "exorbitant prices" for passage through the canal. Furthermore, Trump accused the Panamanian government of allowing foreign, particularly Chinese, influence over its operations, contending that such arrangements were never part of the original agreement.
"When President Jimmy Carter foolishly gave it away, for One Dollar, during his term in Office, it was solely for Panama to manage, not China, or anyone else," Trump tweeted, expressing outrage over what he deemed a continued exploitation of American interests. He strongly criticized the fees imposed by Panama, stating they are "ridiculous," especially given the "extraordinary generosity that has been bestowed to Panama by the U.S."
In emphasizing the canal's strategic significance, Trump noted that over 70% of the canal's transits involve U.S. ports, making it a key element for American commerce and military readiness. He declared that any mismanagement or unfair treatment related to the canal would not be tolerated, cautioning Panamanian officials to respect existing agreements.
In a separate post, Trump remarked that the Panama Canal represents a "vested interest" of the United States, relevant for sustaining the country's global status. His statements point to broader anxieties regarding international control over crucial infrastructure and how such influence might threaten national security.
As Trump prepares for his presidency, his passionate comments regarding the Panama Canal suggest a potential pivot towards renegotiating treaties perceived as detrimental to U.S. interests. The likelihood of a policy shift in this area remains uncertain, but the renewed discussion about the canal's management is expected to gain significant attention in the upcoming administration.
The Panama Canal, an engineering marvel completed in the early 20th century under President Theodore Roosevelt, transformed global shipping by significantly reducing transit time between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Trump highlighted the sacrifices made during its construction, pointing out that "38,000 American men died from infected mosquitos in the jungles during construction." He characterized the canal as a “Wonder of the Modern World” that played a crucial role in establishing America's status as a powerful nation.
Trump took direct aim at former President Jimmy Carter, critiquing his signing of the Torrijos-Carter Treaties that led to the canal's transfer to Panama in 1999. He labeled this decision “foolish,” arguing that it provided Panama an opportunity to impose what he described as "exorbitant prices" for passage through the canal. Furthermore, Trump accused the Panamanian government of allowing foreign, particularly Chinese, influence over its operations, contending that such arrangements were never part of the original agreement.
"When President Jimmy Carter foolishly gave it away, for One Dollar, during his term in Office, it was solely for Panama to manage, not China, or anyone else," Trump tweeted, expressing outrage over what he deemed a continued exploitation of American interests. He strongly criticized the fees imposed by Panama, stating they are "ridiculous," especially given the "extraordinary generosity that has been bestowed to Panama by the U.S."
In emphasizing the canal's strategic significance, Trump noted that over 70% of the canal's transits involve U.S. ports, making it a key element for American commerce and military readiness. He declared that any mismanagement or unfair treatment related to the canal would not be tolerated, cautioning Panamanian officials to respect existing agreements.
In a separate post, Trump remarked that the Panama Canal represents a "vested interest" of the United States, relevant for sustaining the country's global status. His statements point to broader anxieties regarding international control over crucial infrastructure and how such influence might threaten national security.
As Trump prepares for his presidency, his passionate comments regarding the Panama Canal suggest a potential pivot towards renegotiating treaties perceived as detrimental to U.S. interests. The likelihood of a policy shift in this area remains uncertain, but the renewed discussion about the canal's management is expected to gain significant attention in the upcoming administration.
