**Control of the Panama Canal: Trump’s Bold Call Sparks Support and Backlash**
In a striking move, President-elect Donald Trump has reignited the debate over the Panama Canal, calling for the United States to reclaim total control over this vital waterway.
Trump's assertion comes in the wake of rising concerns regarding China's expanding influence in Panama.
On Truth Social, he referenced the 1977 treaty signed by President Jimmy Carter that transferred control to Panama for just one dollar, labeling it as nothing short of a major blunder.
He emphasized that the canal is crucial for American commerce, and stated, “It was solely for Panama to manage, not China, or anyone else.”
Meghan McCain, daughter of the late Senator John McCain, publicly rallied behind Trump’s perspective, declaring it “very personal” due to her family’s ties to the Panama Canal Zone.
Her endorsement highlights a surprising alignment, showcasing that even some who differ ideologically can find common ground on critical national issues.
McCain criticized current Panama President José Raúl Mulino’s rejection of Trump’s claims, reminding us that the canal's historical significance to America cannot be overlooked.
Trump’s comments have reinforced concerns about China’s influence, particularly at strategic ports linked to the canal.
He pointed out the potential consequences of allowing Chinese control over such a significant route, stating that if Panama cannot guarantee its security and operational efficiency, the United States “will demand that the Panama Canal be returned to us, in full, and without question.”
While Mulino maintains that the canal belongs to Panama and not to any foreign power, the reality of Chinese interests nearby calls for a deeper reevaluation of Panama's alliances.
The repercussions of this discourse reach beyond the canal itself, casting a spotlight on broader geopolitical dynamics in Latin America.
Donald Trump has shown fierce commitment to American interests, declaring his intent to confront what he sees as a growing threat from the Chinese Communist Party.
With renewed urgency, Trump continues to address concerns close to the hearts of many Americans and resonates with those who believe in a stronger, more assertive U.S. presence in world affairs.
The question now is whether the Biden administration will respond to these concerns more prudently than its predecessors or whether it will continue down the path of complacency, allowing adversaries to exploit openings in our hemisphere.
Sources:
kfoxtv.comtheepochtimes.comdossier.today