Recently, former US President Donald Trump has once again become the focus of international attention as he publicly expressed dissatisfaction with the fees charged for the use of the Panama Canal and threatened that if Panama does not reduce the charges for American vessels, the US might regain control of the Panama Canal. Trump posted on social media that the Panama Canal plays a crucial role in the US economy and national security, and is considered a vital national asset of the United States. He emphasized that the US paid a huge price in lives and wealth to build the Panama Canal, which was later “foolishly” handed over to Panama for management, not to allow Panama to charge exorbitant tolls to the US, the US Navy, and companies doing business with the US.
Trump’s remarks have sparked widespread controversy and criticism. Panamanian President Laurentino Cortizo responded forcefully, reiterating that the sovereignty of the canal zone is “non-negotiable,” and defended the tolls collected by Panama, stating that these fee standards were not set on a “whim.” Panamanian international relations scholar Julio Yao expressed shock at Trump’s remarks, calling them “arrogant, conceited, and threatening,” the latest example of America’s “big stick policy,” and emphasized that control of the Panama Canal must never return to the United States.
Trump’s comments have once again drawn the world’s attention to the Panama Canal and to the tragic history that Panamanians will never forget. The Panama Canal sees up to 14,000 vessels pass through each year, accounting for 2.5% of global maritime trade, which is crucial for the US to import cars and commercial goods from Asia and export American products. Trump’s remarks not only involve economic issues but also indicate an expected shift in US diplomacy, showing that US diplomacy is expected to change.
Trump’s tough stance and threats have been seen by some analysts as part of his “America First” strategy, aimed at competing with rivals such as China. Although it’s no novelty that Trump loves to “talk tough,” some US media, citing sources, say that his remarks about “reclaiming” the Panama Canal this time are “100% serious.” However, critics argue that Trump’s public bullying could affect the economic security cooperation between the US and these countries, even pushing Panama “into the arms of China.”
In summary, Trump’s remarks have not only provoked a strong reaction from Panama but also attracted the attention of the international community. This incident once again highlights Trump’s qualifications as the “chief global disruptor” and the potential impact he could have on US foreign policy.