President-elect Donald Trump has raised the possibility of demanding the return of the Panama Canal to the United States, citing concerns over its management and its critical role in U.S. economic and national security.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump described the canal as a “vital national asset” and emphasized its importance for U.S. commerce and naval operations.
“The Panama Canal is considered a VITAL National Asset for the United States, due to its critical role to America’s Economy and National Security. A secure Panama Canal is crucial for U.S. Commerce, and rapid deployment of the Navy, from the Atlantic to the Pacific, and drastically cuts shipping times to U.S. ports.”
Trump noted that over 70% of the canal’s transits are connected to U.S. ports and highlighted the canal’s historical significance:
“The United States is the Number One user of the Canal. Considered one of the Wonders of the Modern World, the Panama Canal opened for business 110 years ago, and was built at HUGE cost to the United States in lives and treasure—38,000 American men died from infected mosquitos in the jungles during construction.”
Trump strongly criticized President Jimmy Carter’s decision to transfer control of the canal to Panama, calling it a “foolish” move: “President Jimmy Carter foolishly gave it away, for One Dollar, during his term in Office for Panama to manage.”
He also expressed frustration over what he described as unfair fees charged by Panama for canal usage: “It was likewise not given for Panama to charge the United States, its Navy, and corporations, doing business within our Country, exorbitant prices and rates of passage. Our Navy and Commerce have been treated in a very unfair and injudicious way. The fees being charged by Panama are ridiculous, especially knowing the extraordinary generosity that has been bestowed to Panama by the U.S. This complete ‘rip-off’ of our Country will immediately stop.”
Trump asserted that the U.S. has a vested interest in the canal’s secure and efficient operation, warning that any deviation from the original principles of cooperation could lead to demands for the canal’s return: “The United States has a vested interest in the secure, efficient, and reliable operation of the Panama Canal, and that was always understood. We would and will NEVER let it fall into the wrong hands!”
He continued with a direct message to Panama’s leadership: “If the principles, both moral and legal, of this magnanimous gesture of giving are not followed, then we will demand that the Panama Canal be returned to us, in full, and without question. To the Officials of Panama, please be guided accordingly!”
Built by the United States and opened in 1914, the Panama Canal has been a critical shipping route, drastically reducing travel time between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. It remains a cornerstone of global trade and a key asset for U.S. military and economic interests.
In 1977, the U.S. signed the Torrijos-Carter Treaties, which transferred control of the canal to Panama by 1999. While many hailed the move as a step toward sovereignty for Panama, critics have long argued that the U.S. relinquished a strategic advantage.
Trump’s remarks reflect his broader “America First” approach to foreign policy and infrastructure. Whether his administration will take concrete steps toward reclaiming the Panama Canal remains to be seen. However, his statements are likely to stir debate over U.S.-Panama relations and the future of one of the world’s most important waterways.