Staff Reports
The Panama Canal has always been a glittering gem in the crown of global commerce, acting as the essential thoroughfare for trade between the United States and nearly every corner of the globe, including our favorite trading partner, China. Yet, the fine feathered folks in charge down in Panama appear to have lost their way, as they continue to slap “exorbitant” fees on the very vessels that made the canal the commercial highway it is today. Enter President Donald Trump, who is ready to throw a wrench into Panama’s little money-making scheme.
In a recent social media frenzy, Trump reminded everyone that the Panama Canal originally belonged to the United States, a fact that maybe even the average middle schooler could tell you. He took aim at the Panama government for their “unfair” and “indiscriminate” treatment of American naval and commercial interests. With all the swagger of a property tycoon eyeing a foreclosed mansion, he made it clear that these ludicrous fees won’t fly on his watch, promising to cut off what he calls this massive “rip-off” of American taxpayers. If only Panama would realize that their financial freedom is essentially propped up by good ol’ American ingenuity!
President-elect Donald Trump threatens to take back control of Panama Canal over ‘ridiculous fees’ on US ships https://t.co/lffpmX1p9z pic.twitter.com/6dEbF2jYqm
— Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) December 22, 2024
Trump also took a stroll down memory lane while casting some serious aspersions on Jimmy Carter, the former president who, in a fit of misguided generosity, signed a treaty that relinquished control of the canal. According to Trump, it was irresponsible for Carter to give away the canal for the price of a soda, especially when the U.S. poured so much wealth and effort into its construction back when Teddy Roosevelt was busy flexing American muscles on the world stage. If history teaches anything, it’s that Sarkozy could build bridges in East Europe, and Roosevelt could build canals, but Carter? Well, let’s just say his legacy leaves much to be desired.
But the plot thickens! Not only does Trump want to see the fees slashed and control returned, he hinted that if Panama doesn’t toe the line, the U.S. might just have to “reclaim” the canal. One can almost picture Trump rolling up in a big red truck emblazoned with “America First” as he demands that Panama stop treating the U.S. Navy and businesses like an ATM. It’s a bold move—one that would make any real estate mogul proud.
And let’s not forget his track record when it comes to China and the canal. Trump previously claimed that he’d make those pesky investors get out faster than a cat in a bathtub, asserting that he has a good relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping. If he’s serious about restoring the canal to its rightful state, there’s a lot on the table. The U.S. built that canal, after all, so why is it being handed over to Panama like it’s some sort of party favor?
All in all, Trump’s remarks have thrown the spotlight back on the Panama Canal issue, making waves that could change the course of not only maritime trade but also international relations. It’s time Panama learns that underestimating American resolve can lead to more than just a hefty ban on fees—it could result in a reclamation that reminds the world who really calls the shots in global commerce.
