Mon Dec 23 19:22:05 UTC 2024: ## Trump Threatens to Seize Panama Canal Amidst China Concerns

**Washington D.C./Panama City** – Former US President Donald Trump has issued a strong warning to Panama, threatening to reclaim control of the Panama Canal, citing concerns over growing Chinese influence and what he calls “ridiculous” canal fees. Trump’s pronouncements, made on his Truth Social platform, ignited a diplomatic spat with Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino.

Trump, referencing the US’s historical role in the canal’s construction and initial operation, stated that he would “never let” the waterway fall into the “wrong hands,” implicitly referring to China. He further criticized Panama’s fees as excessive, given the US’s past investment. Trump even suggested that failure to comply with his demands would result in a complete US takeover of the canal.

Panamanian President Mulino swiftly rejected Trump’s assertions, stating unequivocally that the Panama Canal and its surrounding areas belong entirely to Panama and are free from any external control, be it from China, the US, or the European Union. Mulino emphasized his hope for a respectful relationship with the incoming Trump administration, despite the strong rhetoric. Trump responded cryptically with “We’ll see about that!”

The escalating tension highlights the broader geopolitical competition between the US and China. With China now boasting the world’s largest navy, surpassing the US in fleet size, control of strategically important waterways like the Panama Canal has become a key point of contention. The canal’s significance to global trade and freedom of navigation underscores the gravity of the situation.

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