Trump Proposes Reclamation of Panama Canal in Rally Speech Since Election

In his inaugural rally since the election, Donald Trump suggested reclaiming control of the Panama Canal, stating the U.S. made a mistake in relinquishing it due to high shipping fees. He emphasized economic growth, security, and conflict resolution, while fostering a sense of party unity amid congressional disputes. Trump’s comments underscore ongoing debates regarding U.S. interests and management of vital international assets.

During his initial rally since the election in Phoenix, Donald Trump expressed intentions of contemplating the reclamation of the Panama Canal, which was surrendered by the United States to Panama in 1999 under President Jimmy Carter. Asserting that shipping costs are exorbitantly high, he criticized the administration’s decision, labeling it a foolish move. Trump, addressing a crowd of enthusiastic supporters, outlined his vision for America, emphasizing economic growth, border security, and resolution of international conflicts.

The event, part of the Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest, attracted over 20,000 attendees, showcasing Republican solidarity amid a challenging week in Congress, where disagreements among party members arose concerning budgetary matters and federal spending limits. Trump refrained from detailing the congressional strife and instead focused on projecting a unified party image, while also acknowledging influential allies such as Elon Musk in his remarks.

Further elaborating on his agenda, Trump promised immediate action to rectify what he termed the “rip off” of the United States at the Panama Canal, stating, “This complete rip off of the U.S. will immediately stop.” He hinted at a possibility of restoring U.S. control over the canal, although he did not specify the mechanisms through which such a reversal could be achieved. The Panama Canal remains significant for Panama’s economy, contributing substantially to its revenue and facing operational challenges due to recent droughts.

The Panama Canal, a critical maritime passage connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, was transferred from United States control to Panama in 1999 following a treaty negotiated in the late 1970s. Its operational status directly influences international shipping routes and rates, making it a focal point of concern for governments and businesses alike. The canal generates significant income for the Panamanian government while also being vital to global trade logistics. Trump’s remarks align with longstanding sentiments among some U.S. citizens who feel that the historical cession of control represented a substantial loss of national resource management.

In conclusion, Donald Trump’s remarks during his first rally following the election highlighted his intention to revisit the 1999 Panama Canal transfer and his broader agenda focused on economic and geopolitical issues. His assertions about the canal’s fees and management reflect ongoing debates regarding American interests in international trade routes, as well as his continued influence within the Republican party despite facing internal challenges. Trump’s commitment to unifying his party and pursuing policies that favor U.S. interests remains a central theme of his administration’s early orientation.

Original Source: www.pbs.org