Trump Warns China Against Seizing Control of Panama Canal

During a speech at the opening of a presidential library in North Dakota on Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump unexpectedly warned China against attempting to take control of the Panama Canal. Deviating from his prepared remarks, Trump stated, "Now China is trying to take control of the Panama Canal, and we will not let that happen." He acknowledged the unscripted nature of his comment with a smile, saying, "That was not part of the prepared text."

Trump referenced the historic U.S. decision to transfer control of the Panama Canal to Panama in 1999, noting that since then Panama has significantly increased tolls on ships passing through, charging four times more without losing any vessels. His remarks reflect growing American concerns over China's expanding influence in the region, particularly through Chinese companies' involvement in ports and infrastructure near the canal.

The Panama Canal remains a critical global shipping route, and Washington is wary of Beijing's strategic moves to gain leverage there. Although the canal is Panamanian-owned and operated, the U.S. is closely monitoring China's activities to prevent any shift in control that could threaten American interests.