Known for his confrontational rhetoric, Trump has typically taken a hardline method with each allies and adversaries
In a controversial assertion on Saturday, US President-elect Donald Trump accused Panama of charging extreme charges for utilizing the Panama Canal. He warned that if Panama didn’t handle the canal in a manner he deemed acceptable, he would push for the canal to be handed back to the United States.
Posting on Truth Social, Trump additionally expressed concern about potential Chinese affect over the canal, emphasising that he wouldn’t permit the important passage to fall into the “wrong hands.” His feedback marked a uncommon occasion of a US chief suggesting {that a} sovereign nation may very well be compelled to relinquish territory.
“The fees being charged by Panama are ridiculous, especially knowing the extraordinary generosity that has been bestowed to Panama by the US,” Trump wrote. He criticised Panama for what he sees as mismanagement and instructed the canal ought to be returned to the US if ethical and authorized ideas will not be upheld.
The Panama Canal, a significant commerce route connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, was constructed largely by the US. After many years of US administration, full control was handed to Panama in 1999 following a joint administration interval.
Trump’s remarks spotlight a possible shift in US diplomacy below his management. Known for his confrontational rhetoric, Trump has typically taken a hardline method with each allies and adversaries.
The Panamanian embassy in Washington has not but commented on Trump’s statements. However, his remarks are more likely to increase considerations about the way forward for US-Panama relations and the administration of one of many world’s most strategic waterways.
