Trump wants Panama Canal back from Chinese control


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Growing tensions over control of the Panama Canal have escalated as former President Donald Trump announces his intention to reclaim the strategic waterway from Panama, citing concerns over Chinese influence and alleged violations of neutrality agreements.

Trump emphasized the canal’s vital role in global commerce, particularly for U.S. interests, as it serves as a crucial connection between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. A significant portion of canal traffic directly impacts American trade, making its control a matter of national security.

The former president has raised concerns about excessive toll charges imposed on American vessels, including military ships, while warning about the dangers of potential Chinese control over this critical maritime passage.

During a Senate hearing focused on the canal’s status, Eugene Kontorovich, a legal expert, highlighted America’s right to intervene if Chinese influence or excessive fees compromise the waterway’s neutrality. This authority stems from the 1977 agreement signed during the Carter administration, which transferred canal ownership to Panama while preserving U.S. rights to protect its neutral status.

Federal Maritime Commission Chairman Louis Sola provided evidence of China’s expanding influence in Panama since 2015, detailing investments through the Belt and Road Initiative and involvement of companies connected to China’s military. Senator Ted Cruz expressed alarm over Beijing’s growing presence in the Western Hemisphere.

While the treaty permits military intervention to maintain neutrality, it doesn’t authorize permanent U.S. control. However, experts suggest that any temporary American intervention would likely require Panama to demonstrate its capability to protect the canal before regaining control.

Panama’s ability to defend the waterway remains questionable, particularly since the nation lacks traditional military forces. The country abolished its armed forces in 1990 following the U.S. intervention that removed Manuel Noriega, later embedding this decision in its 1994 constitution.

Instead, Panama relies on various public security forces, including the National Police, SENAN for maritime and air defense, SENAFRONT for border protection, and SPI for infrastructure security. While these units handle internal threats, they lack the capacity to defend against major external challenges.

Chinese involvement in the canal zone dates back to 1996 when Hutchison Whampoa, a Hong Kong-based corporation, gained control of key ports. Initially deemed non-threatening under British Hong Kong, concerns grew after Hong Kong’s return to Chinese control in 1997, giving the Chinese Communist Party influence over these strategic assets.

Current Chinese activities in Panama extend beyond port management to include technology implementation and infrastructure development, raising fears about Beijing’s ability to disrupt canal operations.

China’s regional influence extends throughout Latin America, where it employs various tactics to secure strategic assets. These include offering free 5G equipment to Brazilian agricultural businesses and using alleged bribes to secure infrastructure projects in multiple countries.

Speaking at a Turning Point USA gathering, Trump outlined his proposal to restore American control over the canal. While suggesting diplomatic approaches to address Chinese influence, he maintained that military action remains an option if necessary, highlighting the critical nature of protecting this vital waterway from potential adversaries.