Trump Renews Threat to Retake Panama Canal Amid Rising US-China Tensions
Trump’s Warning: ‘Something Very Powerful’ Could Happen
President Donald Trump has once again vowed to “take back” the Panama Canal, warning that if the United States does not regain control, “something very powerful” will happen. His statement, made to reporters on Sunday, highlights growing concerns over China’s influence near the vital waterway.
“China is running the Panama Canal. That was not given to China—it was given to Panama foolishly. But they violated the agreement, and we’re going to take it back, or something very powerful is going to happen,” Trump declared.
Diplomatic Efforts: US and Panama in Talks
Trump’s remarks came just hours after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Panamanian President Raúl Mulino in an effort to ease tensions. During the meeting, Mulino assured Rubio that Panama’s sovereignty over the canal is not negotiable but acknowledged Washington’s concerns regarding Beijing’s involvement.
In a significant move, Mulino announced that Panama would not renew a 2017 memorandum of understanding (MOU) with China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). He also hinted that Panama could terminate the agreement earlier than planned.
“We want to work with the US on new investments, including infrastructure projects,” Mulino stated. “This visit opens the door to strengthen our relationship with the United States and increase American investments in Panama.”
US Cites Treaty to Justify Possible Action
During the discussions, Rubio emphasized that under the 1977 Panama Canal Treaty, the United States retains the right to intervene militarily if the canal’s operations are disrupted by internal conflict or foreign interference. The treaty marked the handover of the canal from the US to Panama but included provisions for US intervention if necessary.
Rubio warned that China’s growing influence in Panama might force the US to take action. “If necessary, we will take the measures required to protect our rights under the treaty,” he said.
Despite Trump’s strong words, Mulino downplayed the likelihood of military intervention, stating that he does not believe the US will use force to retake control of the canal.
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Scrutiny Over Chinese-Linked Company
Panama is currently conducting an audit of Panama Ports Company (PPC), a subsidiary of Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison Holdings. This company operates two key terminals around the canal, raising concerns over China’s involvement in the region.
Mulino explained, “We need to wait for the audit results before making any legal decisions or taking further action.”
However, reports clarify that Hutchison does not control canal access. The company’s operations are limited to loading and unloading cargo and refueling ships, similar to services provided by other companies in the area.
Migration Deal: Panama Calls for US Funding
Another key topic of discussion between Rubio and Mulino was Panama’s migration crisis. The two leaders discussed expanding a repatriation flight program to remove foreign nationals lacking legal status in Panama.
Mulino made it clear that while Panama is open to facilitating deportations, the financial burden must fall on the United States. “We can do this without a problem—under the full cost of the US. Panama won’t invest a single dollar in it,” he stated.
The repatriation program, signed in July, aims to curb illegal migration through the treacherous Darién Gap, a dense rainforest corridor that serves as a major passage for migrants traveling from South America to North America. Panama is considering repatriating migrants from Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, and other nations under the program.
Conclusion
As tensions over the Panama Canal and China’s influence grow, Trump’s aggressive stance signals potential policy shifts if he returns to the White House. Meanwhile, Panama seeks to navigate its relationships with both the US and China while addressing internal challenges, including migration and economic stability.
