Trump Threat to Take Back Panama Canal

• Trump threatened to take back the Panama Canal in December 2024, citing high transit fees and drought-related issues.

• The Panama Canal Authority reduced ship crossing slots by 36% in 2023, increasing transit fees.

• Chinese presence in the canal raises concerns over Chinese influence on U.S. Navy operations.

• The Panama Canal was handed over to Panama in 1999 under the Torrijos-Carter Treaties.

• The canal is neutral and open to all nations.

• President José Raúl Mulino defended transit rates and denied external influence.

• Panama seeks international support to reaffirm its sovereignty.