President-elect Donald Trump has signaled a potential shift in U.S. foreign policy by suggesting that the United States might reclaim control over the Panama Canal if Panama fails to manage it appropriately. In a recent post on Truth Social, Trump criticized Panama for imposing “ridiculous” fees on U.S. vessels and cautioned against the canal falling into “the wrong hands,” implicitly referencing concerns over Chinese influence.
Trump is 100% right. Carter should have never given up the Panama Canal. Let’s reclaim it. pic.twitter.com/4qStwoSzUX
— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) December 22, 2024
The Panama Canal, a strategic maritime passage connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, was constructed by the United States in the early 20th century at significant cost. After decades of U.S. administration, control of the canal was transferred to Panama in 1999, following the Torrijos-Carter Treaties of 1977. These treaties stipulated that Panama would assume full control while the U.S. retained the right to defend the canal’s neutrality.
Anchored In Oklahoma Podcast
Trump’s statements underscore a broader concern about the canal’s management and its implications for U.S. national security and economic interests. He emphasized the canal’s vital role in facilitating U.S. commerce and enabling rapid naval deployment between oceans. Highlighting that over 70% of canal transits are linked to U.S. ports, Trump argued that Panama’s current fee structure is unjust, especially considering the historical sacrifices made by the United States during the canal’s construction.
The president-elect’s remarks also allude to apprehensions about potential Chinese involvement in the canal’s operations. While no Chinese entity directly manages the canal, China’s growing pmerica and its administration of ports at both ends of the canal have raised strategic concerns. Trump’s assertion that the canal should not be managed by China reflects a commitment to preventing any shift in control that could undermine U.S. interests.
Analysts note that while the U.S. retains the right to defend the canal’s neutrality, the legal grounds for reclaiming control are tenuous. The Torrijos-Carter Treaties do not provide a clear mechanism for the United States to unilaterally retake the canal. Nevertheless, Trump’s rhetoric signals a willingness to challenge existing diplomatic norms to safeguard national interests.
This development comes amid broader discussions about the canal’s operations. Recent drought conditions have affected transit schedules, prompting the Panama Canal Authority to implement a new booking reservation system. In response, ocean carriers have announced surcharges for routes passing through the canal, set to take effect on January 1, 2025. These surcharges range from $40 to $150 per twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU), depending on the route.
Trump’s stance reflects a broader commitment to assertive foreign policy measures that prioritize American economic and security interests. By challenging Panama’s management of the canal and expressing readiness to demand its return, he underscores a determination to confront international practices perceived as disadvantageous to the United States. This approach resonaive perspectives that advocate for robust defense of national sovereignty and economic competitiveness.
As the inauguration approaches, it remains to be seen how these declarations will influence U.S.-Panama relations and the operational dynamics of the Panama Canal. However, Trump’s statements have already signaled a potential reevaluation of agreements that have been in place for decades, emphasizing a foreign policy trajectory that seeks to rectify perceived inequities in international arrangements.
Huge Spring Sale Underway On MyPillow Products
Use Promo Code FLS At Checkout
Use Promo Code FLS At Checkout
Inflation Buster: Freedom From High-Cost Cell Plans (50% off first month with promo code: FLS)
http://GetPureTalk.Com
Eric Thompson
President Trump the change master. Utilizing tried and true business change tactics in government and international relations is refreshing and very effective. Something “politicians” are clueless about, thus giving president Trump a huge advantage with the people.
Most elected politicians are (or seem to be) clueless about business, either from not studying any aspect of it in higher education or simply never working in business. The U.S. Presidency demands business knowledge and experience since it is undeniable that it is the largest business entity in the world. Taking direction from a Congress that appears to not understand the ramifications of the world’s economy is like asking a pet owner to operate on his/her own pet instead of using a qualified and highly competent veterinarian. Given the proven fact that liberals can’t think past the first step of any initiative places them at a strong disadvantage to give good advice. Thank God for Trump!