President Trump is reportedly advancing his plans to retake the Panama Canal, signaling a bold move to restore American influence over a crucial maritime pathway. According to NBC News, Trump has instructed military leadership to “draw up options” for either deepening ties with Panamanian security forces or, if necessary, reclaiming the canal by force.
The report indicates:
U.S. Southern Command is developing potential plans that vary from partnering more closely with Panamanian security forces to the less likely option of U.S. troops seizing the Panama Canal by force, the officials said.
The decision on military intervention, according to officials, hinges on Panama’s willingness to collaborate with the United States. The Trump administration aims to bolster U.S. military presence in the region to counter China’s influence, particularly its access to the canal.
U.S. officials have conveyed to NBC News that Adm. Alvin Holsey, the commander of U.S. Southern Command, recently presented draft strategies to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Hegseth is expected to visit Panama next month, reinforcing the urgency of this initiative.
After his resounding election victory last November, President Trump has consistently vowed to reclaim the canal from Panama. He has criticized the Central American nation for allegedly granting China control over this strategic route and expressed regret over the late President Jimmy Carter’s decision to relinquish it without solid future assurances.
Moreover, Trump’s administration has accused Panama of financially burdening American businesses with exorbitant canal fees.
During a joint address to Congress earlier this month, Trump highlighted the sacrifices made by Americans during the canal’s construction, which was handed over to Panama in 1977.
To further enhance our national security, my administration will be reclaiming the Panama Canal, and we’ve already started doing it.
In an assertive move, a significant American company announced plans to acquire both ports around the Panama Canal, along with extensive related assets.
The Panama Canal, built by Americans at a tremendous cost in terms of both lives and treasure, should serve American interests first. Tragically, thirty-eight thousand workers perished due to harsh conditions, highlighting the canal’s historical significance and cost.
Trump condemned the 1977 handover by the Carter administration, which he claims violated the original agreement. He stressed, “We didn’t give it to China. We gave it to Panama, and we’re taking it back.”
President Trump to Congress: “My Administration Will be Reclaiming the Panama Canal, and We’ve Already Started Doing It”
In support of this effort, Secretary of State Marco Rubio traveled to Panama last month to discuss these strategic concerns. Following productive talks, Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino announced plans to disengage from China’s Silk Road initiative, considering an early exit from the agreement.
