Trump Threatens to Reclaim Control of Panama Canal, Criticizes Treaty Transfer

President-elect Donald Trump has once again made headlines with his latest controversial statement on social media platform Truth Social. In a surprising move, Trump threatened to reclaim control of the Panama Canal, a vital waterway connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

Accusing Panama of exploiting American vessels by charging “exorbitant prices” for access to the canal, Trump criticized the 1977 treaty that transferred control of the canal from the United States to Panama. He called the fees charged by Panama “ridiculous” and stated that if unfair practices continue, the U.S. would demand the canal’s return.

The Panama Canal, constructed by the United States in the early 20th century, remains a crucial shortcut for ships traveling between the two oceans. Without the canal, ships would have to navigate the treacherous waters around South America’s Cape Horn, a much longer and more dangerous route.

Trump’s sudden focus on the Panama Canal has raised eyebrows, as the waterway’s fee structure has long been a point of contention. Despite the fees ranging from as little as $0.50 to $300,000 depending on the size of the vessel, the canal is essential for global trade, with the United States, China, and Japan being its largest users.

However, concerns about the canal’s operations have been growing, with a recent drought leading Panamanian authorities to reduce ship crossings by 36%, impacting international trade routes. Trump’s threat to reclaim control of the canal has sparked debate and speculation about the future of this crucial waterway.

As the world watches and waits to see how this situation unfolds, one thing is certain – Trump’s latest statement has once again stirred controversy and captured the attention of the public.