Trump Demands Fair Fees or Return of Panama Canal Control
President-elect Donald Trump has voiced strong criticism regarding the current toll fees imposed on U.S. ships utilizing the Panama Canal, claiming they are excessively high and detrimental to American maritime interests. In a post on his platform, Truth Social, Trump pointed out that toll fees vary greatly depending on the ship’s cargo and size, with some charges reaching as high as $500,000, Fox News reported.
Trump highlighted the Panama Canal’s historical importance, asserting that it is a vital asset for U.S. national security and economic viability. He explained that the canal facilitates rapid naval and commercial transport between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, thus playing a crucial role in U.S. logistics and defense.
“The Panama Canal is considered a VITAL National Asset for the United States, due to its critical role to America’s Economy and National Security,” Trump wrote in his post. “A secure Panama Canal is crucial for U.S. Commerce, and rapid deployment of the Navy, from the Atlantic to the Pacific, and drastically cuts shipping times to U.S. ports.”
Moreover, Trump pointed fingers at former President Jimmy Carter, accusing him of “foolishly” transferring control of the canal to Panama through the 1977 Panama Canal Treaty, which resulted in the end of U.S. governance over the canal in 1999. His comments imply a belief that the United States should receive favorable toll rates as a matter of fairness, particularly regarding its maritime operations.
“Our Navy and Commerce have been treated in a very unfair and injudicious way,” the president-elect argued. “The fees being charged by Panama are ridiculous, especially knowing the extraordinary generosity that has been bestowed to Panama by the U.S. This complete ‘rip-off’ of our Country will immediately stop.”
In a more provocative suggestion, Trump stated that if Panama would not offer equitable terms for American ships, the U.S. should consider demanding the return of the Panama Canal. He argued that the original transition of the canal to Panamanian control was meant to symbolize goodwill and cooperation, which he believes should still be honored.
“[The Panama Canal] was not given for the benefit of others, but merely as a token of cooperation with us and Panama,” Trump wrote. “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.”
“To the Officials of Panama, please be guided accordingly!” Trump concluded.
It’s important to note that the Panama Canal, which required substantial financial investment to build and operate, does not depend on U.S. taxpayer funding. Instead, the canal operates on a toll system for ships that navigate its waters, a financial model designed to maintain its operational integrity and independence.
Scroll down to leave a comment and share your thoughts.
Leave a Comment