• Donald Trump criticized Panama Canal fees as unfair to the U.S., threatening action and demanding U.S. control if the fee structure isn't changed.
  • He called the 1979 treaty under Jimmy Carter, which transferred control of the canal to Panama, a "foolish" decision and emphasized its strategic importance for U.S. security and trade.
  • Trump warned of potential diplomatic tensions if Panama continues to impose what he described as excessive tariffs on U.S. vessels.

President-elect Donald Trump criticized Panama Canal fees on Saturday, claiming they unfairly target the United States and threatening action if Panama refuses to make changes. He vowed to demand U.S. control of the canal if Panama keeps the current fee structure when he returns to office.

Trump's Statement on Panama Fees

In a statement posted on Truth Social, Trump said, “Panama charges ridiculous fees, especially considering the extraordinary generosity the U.S. has shown to Panama. This complete ‘rip-off’ of our Country will stop immediately.”

Panama Canal Tariffs and U.S. Concerns

Panama charges tariffs for vessels passing through the canal, with fees ranging from $0.50 to as much as $300,000, depending on the ship’s size and purpose. Trump argued that these charges target the U.S. disproportionately, as the U.S. relies on the waterway more than any other nation. The Panama Canal, a vital shipping route linking the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, plays a central role in global trade and supports U.S. interests.

Trump also criticized the 1979 treaty under President Jimmy Carter that transferred control of the canal to Panama in 1999. He described the decision as “foolish” and claimed it handed management over to Panama, not to other nations like China. “When President Jimmy Carter foolishly gave it away, for One Dollar, he intended it solely for Panama to manage, not China or anyone else,” Trump wrote.

The Panama Canal: A Historic Engineering Feat

The United States, under President Teddy Roosevelt, constructed the Panama Canal starting in 1904, completing one of the greatest engineering achievements of its time. Engineers designed it to streamline shipping between oceans, save time, and boost trade efficiency. Trump highlighted the canal’s importance to U.S. national security and economic stability.

Trump's Remarks on the Panama Canal

Trump emphasized the strategic importance of keeping the canal secure and operational. “The United States has a vested interest in the secure, efficient, and reliable operation of the Panama Canal,” he said. He insisted the canal must not fall into “the wrong hands” and accused Panama of treating the U.S. unfairly.

Trump’s remarks come as debates around global trade routes and economic influence grow more intense. His comments signal potential diplomatic conflicts between the U.S. and Panama if the fees remain unchanged.

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