President-elect Trump expressed concerns regarding the fees associated with the Panama Canal, an essential shipping route, during a statement on Saturday night. He asserted that he would seek to reclaim oversight of the waterway for the United States if the current fee structure remains unchanged upon his return to office.
“The fees imposed by Panama are outrageous, particularly in light of the significant generosity that the U.S. has extended to Panama,” Trump stated on Truth Social. “This total ‘rip-off’ of our Country will come to an immediate halt….”
Panama imposes tariffs on vessels seeking passage through its canal. Fees fluctuate depending on the size and intended use of vessels, with charges spanning from a minimum of $0.50 to a maximum of $300,000.
“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,” Trump stated. Officials of Panama are urged to take note and act accordingly.
The Panama Canal is utilized by the United States more than any other nation. The transfer of control over the canal from the United States to the Central American nation occurred in 1999, following a treaty established in 1979 during President Jimmy Carter’s administration. Former President Trump has characterized this decision as unwise.
“During his term in office, President Jimmy Carter made a controversial decision to transfer control for One Dollar, specifically designating Panama as the managing entity, not China or any other country,” he stated. “Panama was also not permitted to impose exorbitant prices and rates of passage on the United States, its Navy, and corporations operating within its borders.”
The Panama Canal’s construction commenced in 1904, initiated by President Teddy Roosevelt. The waterway was constructed to facilitate a rapid transportation route for shipping goods between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. At that moment, it was regarded as one of the most significant accomplishments in foreign policy.
