Donald Trump threatens to demand the return of the Panama Canal

• Donald Trump Criticizes «Exorbitant» Panama Canal Fees
• Threatens to Demand Return of the Panama Canal
• Questions Jimmy Carter’s Agreement

The U.S. president-elect, Donald Trump, criticized the «exorbitant» fees and management of the Panama Canal this past Saturday.

He threatened to demand its «return» if authorities fail to respect «moral and legal» principles.

The Republican, who will assume office on January 20, stated on Truth Social that the U.S. Navy and American commerce are facing a «very unfair and reckless» deal.

He urged «Panama’s officials» to take action accordingly.

DONALD TRUMP THREATENS TO DEMAND THE RETURN OF THE PANAMA CANAL

«Panama’s fees are ridiculous, especially considering the extraordinary generosity that the United States has extended to Panama.»

«This complete ‘scam’ against our country will cease immediately,» he added.

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The former president (2017-2021) reminded that the United States is the number one user of the Canal.

With more than 70% of all traffic to and from U.S. ports.

Criticism of Former President Jimmy Carter

Trump also criticized former President Jimmy Carter (1977-1981), who played a key role in transferring control of the Panama Canal from the United States to Panama.

«When President Jimmy Carter foolishly gave it away for a dollar during his term, it was only Panama that managed it, not China or anyone else.»

«Nor was Panama allowed to charge the United States, its Navy, and corporations doing business in our country, exorbitant passage fees,» he wrote.

«If the principles, both moral and legal, of this generous donation are not respected, we will demand the return of the Panama Canal, in its entirety and without question,» he stated.

Strategic Importance of the Panama Canal

Trump emphasized that «the United States has a personal interest in the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of the Panama Canal,» which was built at a «huge» cost to the country.

«We would never allow it to fall into the wrong hands!» he detailed on the social media platform.

«They didn’t give it away to benefit others, but simply as a gesture of cooperation with us and Panama,» he highlighted, without providing further details on the threats mentioned.

He added that securing the Panama Canal is crucial for U.S. commerce and the rapid deployment of the Navy.

*WITH INFORMATION FROM EFE.

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