President Donald Trump's latest directive to the military signals potential changes in U.S. involvement at the Panama Canal.
According to Daily Caller, Trump has instructed U.S. military officials to develop plans for increasing American troop presence at the Panama Canal, with options ranging from enhanced cooperation with Panama to potential canal seizure.
The military planning directive follows Trump's March 6 congressional address where he emphasized reclaiming control of the vital waterway. U.S. Southern Command is now evaluating various scenarios, though officials indicate that any use of military force would depend heavily on continued cooperation from Panama's military forces.
The push for increased U.S. presence comes amid growing concerns about China's expanding role in canal operations. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's February visit to Panama highlighted American apprehension about the Chinese Communist Party's control over the strategic waterway.
Chinese companies have established a significant presence in the region since Panama joined China's Belt and Road Initiative in 2017. The Landbridge Group's $900 million acquisition of Margarita Island, Panama's largest Atlantic port, marked a notable expansion of Chinese interests.
Recent developments suggest some scaling back of Chinese involvement, with Panama's President Mulino announcing the country won't renew its Belt and Road Initiative agreement. Additionally, American investment firm Blackrock has agreed to purchase Chinese-operated ports for $22.8 billion.
During his congressional address, Trump emphasized American sacrifices in building the canal. Trump stated to Congress:
The Panama Canal was built by Americans for Americans, not for others, but others could use it. But it was built at tremendous cost of American blood and treasure. It was given away by the Carter administration for $1, but that agreement has been violated very severely. We didn't give it to China. We gave it to Panama, and we're taking it back.
Panama's leadership has firmly rejected Trump's claims about canal ownership. President Mulino responded by declaring, "The canal belongs to Panama and will continue to belong to Panama."
The situation has sparked diplomatic tensions between multiple nations. China has rejected accusations of interference in canal operations, characterizing U.S. actions as coercive attempts to block Chinese projects.
Pentagon officials and the Panama Canal Authority have not yet commented on the reported military planning directive. The development of various military scenarios suggests a complex evaluation process ahead.
The potential for increased military presence has raised questions about regional stability and international maritime commerce through this crucial shipping route.
Trump's military directive regarding the Panama Canal represents a significant shift in U.S. policy toward the strategic waterway. The former president's instructions to draw up plans for increased troop presence has sparked international debate about canal control and access.
As U.S. Southern Command develops various scenarios, from enhanced partnership to potential seizure, the situation continues to evolve amid complex diplomatic relations between the United States, Panama, and China.
