During a pivotal trip to Panama, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth made it unmistakably clear that safeguarding the Panama Canal from Chinese influence is a top priority for President Donald J. Trump. Hegseth’s visit was part of a Central American Security Conference, and he spoke with conviction about protecting this crucial shipping route.
“The United States of America will not allow communist China or any other country to threaten the canal’s operation or integrity,” he said during a press event from the Central American nation. “To this end, the United States and Panama have done more in recent weeks to strengthen our defense and security cooperation than we have in decades.
“Together, we will take back the Panama Canal from China’s influence,” he added.
Pier 3 tangibly represents America’s and Panama’s shared commitment to the Panama Canal’s security. Thanks to over $5 million in support from @USACEHQ, we have refurbished this pier.
— Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth (@SecDef)
April 8, 2025
Despite Panama’s claims that China does not control the canal, recent actions suggest a shift in alliances. The Central American nation recently exited its 2017 Belt and Road Initiative agreements with Beijing, signaling a preference to align with the Trump administration in this geopolitical arena.
We will take back Panama Canal from China’s influence — SecDef Hegseth
— RT (@RT_com)
April 8, 2025
Hegseth emphatically stated, “China did not build this canal, China does not operate this canal, and China will not weaponize this canal.”
SecDef Pete Hegseth with the Panama Canal to his back just named checked China: “I want to be very clear: China did not build this canal, China does not operate this canal, and China will not weaponize this canal.”
— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11)
April 8, 2025
Hegseth outlined various joint military exercises and operations aimed at countering China’s influence. He warned that Chinese companies’ involvement in canal infrastructure poses surveillance risks, compromising the security and sovereignty of both Panama and the United States.
He concluded, reiterating his firm stance, “China did not build this canal. China does not operate this canal, and China will not weaponize this canal.”
