Panama President Rules Out Talks With Trump Over Canal Threat

Fri Dec 27 03:58:54 UTC 2024: ## Panama Rejects Trump’s Canal Demands, Denies Chinese Interference

**Panama City, Panama** – Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino has firmly rejected former US President Donald Trump’s demand for the return of the Panama Canal to US control, calling the suggestion “unacceptable” and ruling out any negotiations. Mulino’s statement follows Trump’s repeated claims on his Truth Social platform alleging unfair fees and hinting at Chinese interference in the canal’s operation. Trump even went so far as to falsely claim the presence of Chinese soldiers operating the canal.

Mulino categorically denied any Chinese interference, stating that the canal’s operation is solely managed by Panama and that the fees are determined through a transparent, established process. He emphasized the historical significance of the canal’s transfer to Panama in 1999, highlighting the sacrifices made to achieve this milestone.

Trump’s assertions prompted protests outside the US embassy in Panama City, with demonstrators chanting slogans rejecting his claims and demanding he leave the canal alone. The canal, a vital waterway accounting for approximately 5% of global maritime traffic, sees the US as its largest user (74% of cargo), followed by China (21%). Despite Trump’s concerns, Mulino made it clear that Panama will not cede control of the canal under any circumstances.