President-elect Trump has criticized the “exorbitant” fees Panama charges the United States and threatened to demand control of the country's key trade node.
The former president and future president posted two truth social posts highlighting America's current relationship with the built, sold, and vaunted Panama Canal — which he calls national and financial security. It was positioned as a problem.
“If the moral and legal principles of this generous donation are not upheld, we will demand the full return of the Panama Canal, no questions asked.”
Reuters
Dear Panamanian authorities, please provide appropriate guidance. ” the president-elect wrote on Truth Social on Saturday night.. “The Panama Canal is considered a vital national asset by the United States because of its critical role in America's economy and national security.”
“A secure Panama Canal is critical to U.S. commerce and the rapid deployment of our naval forces from the Atlantic to the Pacific, greatly reducing transit times to U.S. ports,” he wrote. Another post.
The billionaire elaborated that deliveries to and from the US account for 70% of the traffic that passes through the connector.
President Trump also shared his thoughts on the circumstances of the transfer of rights to the man-made wonder, including the historical context of how it was built.
Reuters
“The Panama Canal opened 110 years ago and was constructed at great cost in American life and property,” he wrote.
“When President Jimmy Carter foolishly handed it out for $1 during his term, it was only Panama that controlled it, not China or anyone else,” Trump explained.
Trump also criticized the “exorbitant fees and tolls” charged to U.S. troops and businesses.
“This complete 'rip-off' of our country will stop immediately,” he wrote before delivering an ultimatum to Panamanian national leaders. “We will never allow it to fall into the wrong hands!”
