Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is set to head to Panama next week for the Central American Security Conference. This significant event is focused on ensuring a secure Western Hemisphere, but has been overshadowed by recent statements from President Donald J. Trump. The Commander-in-Chief has shown interest in regaining control of the legendary Panama Canal, though details on this bold move remain unspecified.
According to a report from Reuters, Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell mentioned that Hegseth will participate in bilateral meetings at the conference. These discussions are aimed at bolstering alliances with Panama and other Central American nations to achieve peace and security in the region.
The Associated Press highlighted President Trump’s criticism over the relinquishment of the canal to Panama over two decades ago. Trump has boldly threatened to reclaim it, asserting that the U.S. pays too much for its usage. Meanwhile, Panama has countered Trump’s claims, denying any Chinese control over the canal.
It was on December 31, 1999, that the U.S. handed over the canal to Panama under a treaty signed by President Jimmy Carter in 1977, a decision Trump has deemed ‘foolish.’ In light of Trump’s recent declarations, a Hong Kong-based conglomerate has decided to sell its controlling interest in ports near the Panama Canal to a consortium that includes BlackRock Inc. This strategic move effectively places these ports back under American influence. The deal grants BlackRock control over 43 ports across 23 countries, including the pivotal ones at both ends of the Panama Canal.
