President-elect Trump took up the issue again on Sunday, telling a conference of supporters to return the canal to U.S. control in a surprising proposal that would force sovereign nations to cede territory.
President Trump has vowed to take swift action on the issue after taking office in less than a month.
“It's given to Panama and the Panamanian people, but there's a clause that says they have to treat us fairly, and they're not treating us fairly,” Trump said at Turning Point's American Fest. said.
“If the moral and legal principles of this generous gift are not upheld, we will demand the complete, immediate, and unquestionable return of the Panama Canal to the United States.” he added. It's similar to what he posted on Truth Social the day before.
When members of the audience chanted “take it back,” Trump responded, “That's a good idea.”
In a social media post, the president-elect hinted that the United States was being ripped off and expressed dissatisfaction with being charged fees for the canal.
“The fees that Panama charges are ridiculous, especially given the extraordinary generosity that the United States has given Panama,” Trump said on Truth Social. “This complete 'rip-off' of our country will be stopped immediately.”
Panama imposes customs duties on boats and ships that use the canal. Prices vary depending on the size and purpose of the vessel and range from $0.50 to $300,000.
“Panamanian authorities, please give us proper guidance!” President Trump said Saturday at Truth Social.
During an appearance on America Fest, President Trump said, “The United States is the largest user of the Panama Canal, with more than 72 percent of all traffic departing from and arriving at American ports.''
“Think about it: So we built it, we used it, and they gave it away,” he added.
