In a bold and unprecedented move, President Donald Trump has suggested that he may demand Panama hand over control of the Panama Canal to the United States. The Panama Canal is a crucial waterway that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and has been under Panamanian control since the signing of the Torrijos-Carter Treaties in 1977.
Trump’s comments come as tensions between the two countries have been on the rise in recent months. The President has repeatedly criticized Panama for what he perceives as unfair trade practices and has accused the country of not doing enough to combat illegal immigration and drug trafficking.
In a tweet on Thursday, Trump said, “Panama is taking advantage of the United States. We built the Panama Canal, and now they’re reaping all the benefits. It’s time for them to pay up or hand over control of the Canal.”
The Panama Canal is a vital artery for global trade, with over 14,000 ships passing through it each year. It generates billions of dollars in revenue for Panama and is a key source of income for the country.
However, Trump’s suggestion that the United States could demand control of the Canal has been met with skepticism and concern from both American and Panamanian officials. Many experts argue that such a move would be a violation of international law and would likely lead to a breakdown in diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela quickly responded to Trump’s comments, stating that Panama would not entertain any discussions about handing over control of the Canal. He emphasized the importance of the Canal to Panama’s economy and sovereignty, and reiterated that the Torrijos-Carter Treaties guarantee Panama’s control of the waterway.
Despite the backlash, Trump has not backed down from his stance. In a press conference on Friday, he doubled down on his comments, stating that the United States has the right to demand fair treatment from its allies.
It remains to be seen how this latest controversy will play out, but one thing is clear: Trump’s suggestion that the United States could demand control of the Panama Canal has opened up a new chapter in the often tumultuous relationship between the two countries. Only time will tell what the future holds for this critical waterway.