On 12/22/2024, Trump, speaking at the Turning Point Action Conference in Phoenix, Arizona, called Panama's fees "ridiculous" and "highly unfair." "The United States has a big and vested interest in the secure, efficient and reliable operation of the Panama Canal," he said. It's falling into the wrong hands — it was not given for the benefit of others," Trump continued. "It was given with provisions, you have to treat us fairly and you are not treating us fairly." rump has demanded Panama reduce fees on the Panama Canal or return it to US control, accusing the central American country of charging "exorbitant prices" to American shipping and naval vessels.
"The fees being charged by Panama are ridiculous, highly unfair," he told a crowd of supporters in Arizona on Sunday.
"This complete rip-off of our country will immediately stop," he said, referring to when he takes office next month.
His remarks prompted a quick rebuke from Panama's president, who said "every square metre" of the canal and surrounding area belong to his country.
Trump's Big Warning Over Panama Canal Amid Rising Chinese Influence. Reminding the government in Panama that the canal was originally built by the US more than a century ago, Trump wrote "It was solely for Panama to manage, not China, or anyone else". He further warned that "We would and will NEVER let it fall into the wrong hands!"
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.
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!
Panama granted the U.S. the right to build the canal and control the land on either side in 1904. In 1977 President Jimmy Carter signed a treaty that returned the canal to full Panamanian control by the end of 1999 in exchange for its permanent neutrality. Panama charges fees for each vessel going through the canal, making it an important economic driver for the country.
[ Ссылка ]
Trump on Panama Canal: highly unfair ridiculous fees, complete rip-off of our country
