This holiday season has brought a series of provocative statements from President-elect Donald Trump, hinting at international tensions on the horizon.
Panama Canal at the Center of Controversy
Trump’s Claims: Trump has publicly voiced a desire to regain control of the Panama Canal, accusing Panama of "cheating" the U.S. with "outrageous" fees. He also alleged, without evidence, the presence of Chinese troops operating "illegally" in the canal zone.
Panama Responds: Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino firmly rejected these accusations, reiterating Panama’s ownership of the canal and dismissing claims of Chinese influence in its operations. Mulino emphasized that the canal’s tolls are determined by market conditions and operational costs.
Historical Distortions: Trump’s assertion that the canal’s construction cost 38,000 American lives has been debunked by historians, who estimate the death toll closer to 5,800, primarily Caribbean laborers.
New U.S. Ambassador Appointment
Trump has appointed Kevin Marino Cabrera as the U.S. ambassador to Panama, describing him as a staunch advocate of "America First" policies.
Latin American Concerns
Regional leaders, including Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro, have expressed solidarity with Panama, emphasizing the region’s sovereignty and dignity.
Trump’s Expansionist Ambitions
Canada and Greenland: In addition to the Panama Canal, Trump has suggested annexing Canada as the "51st state" and acquiring Greenland for "national security" reasons. Greenland’s prime minister has unequivocally rejected the proposal.
Unfounded Accusations: Trump alleged that Panama fails to secure the canal adequately and claimed, without evidence, that Chinese entities manage the canal unlawfully.
China’s Strategic Moves
The “Dry Canal” Alternative: China is advancing plans for a “Dry Canal” in Honduras, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, reflecting growing competition with the U.S. in the region.
Infrastructure Investments: China has strengthened its presence in Panama, building key infrastructure such as the fourth bridge over the canal and managing adjacent ports.
Trump’s statements underscore a vision that blends "America First" rhetoric with expansionist aspirations, creating unease across the Americas.
We will continue to monitor these developments and provide updates.
Sources:
Salon.com, Fox News, Al Jazeera, South China Morning Post, El Pais, Huffington Post.
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