Rubio questions tariff charges on U.S. warships in the Panama Canal

• Marco Rubio Calls U.S. Warship Fees Unfair
• During his tour of the region, Rubio expressed expectations regarding the Canal’s neutrality.
• His statement sparked controversy with the Panamanian government, which rejected the claim.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called it «absurd» that U.S. warships are required to pay fees to transit the Panama Canal.

Rubio emphasized that the United States has an obligation to protect this vital waterway in times of conflict.

Although he acknowledged Panama’s legal processes, he reiterated that U.S. expectations remain unchanged.

He asserted that U.S. warships should receive different treatment.

The Controversy Over the Panama Canal and Fees Imposed on the U.S.

During his tour of Latin America, Rubio visited Panama and met with President José Raúl Mulino.

The primary topic of discussion was the neutrality of the Canal and the fees imposed on U.S. warships.

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Marco Rubio firmly stated that U.S. expectations were clearly communicated.

He also discussed the need to optimize the transit of American vessels through the Canal.

The US State Department published a message on X claiming that Panama would no longer charge these fees.

Panamanian authorities swiftly rejected this statement, labeling it «false.»

Rubio clarified that he was not mistaken about Panama’s position.

However, he reiterated that US expectations regarding the treatment of its warships and the fees that will be charged remain unchanged.

Rubio insisted that the United States has a duty, under the 1977 treaty, to protect the Panama Canal.

He added that he finds it «absurd» for U.S. warships to pay tolls to cross the waterway.

In times of war, he argued, this responsibility falls on the U.S. Armed Forces.

According to Rubio, this obligation must be upheld regardless of any imposed fees.

The Panama Canal Neutrality Treaty ensures the security and free passage of vessels from all nations.

Despite these differences, Rubio expressed his respect for Panama’s laws and democratic processes.

He reaffirmed that U.S. expectations were clearly conveyed during discussions.

Ultimately, he assured that the security of the Canal remains a top priority for the United States.

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