Davos, Switzerland — Panama’s President Jose Raul Mulino firmly dismissed questions about a potential U.S. invasion after President Donald Trump suggested the United States should reclaim the Panama Canal. “Be serious, be serious,” Mulino said during the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, where he participated in a panel on Latin America’s challenges.
Trump’s Controversial Comments
During his inaugural address earlier in the week, Trump reiterated his aspiration for the U.S. to take back control of the Panama Canal. He referred to the 19th-century “Manifest Destiny” doctrine, which historically justified U.S. territorial expansion. However, Trump did not provide specifics on how or when such a move might occur.
Criticism erupted after Trump refused to rule out the use of military force, raising alarms among Latin American allies and adversaries. Trump also accused Panama of breaking promises tied to the canal’s transfer and alleged that Panama ceded its operation to China—claims the Panamanian government strongly denies.
Panama Stands Firm
President Mulino responded on social media, asserting Panama’s sovereignty over the canal. “The Panama Canal has been responsibly managed by Panama for global trade, including the United States. It is and will remain Panamanian,” Mulino posted on X (formerly Twitter).
At the WEF session, Mulino reinforced this stance, stating that Trump’s claims were “entirely false.” He declared, “The Panama Canal was not a gift from the United States. It belongs to Panama and will continue to belong to Panama.”
A Brief History of the Canal
The Panama Canal, a crucial trade route connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, was largely built by the U.S. and managed by the U.S. government for decades. However, in 1977, the U.S. and Panama signed treaties that outlined the canal’s return to Panama. After a period of joint administration, the canal was officially handed over to Panama in 1999, solidifying its sovereignty.
Global Impact and Reactions
Mulino emphasized that Panama has managed the canal efficiently, ensuring it remains a vital asset for global commerce. Trump’s remarks, seen as provocative, have drawn widespread criticism from both Washington and Latin America, with many urging the U.S. to respect Panama’s sovereignty.
The exchange highlights growing tensions between the U.S. and Latin America over sovereignty and international agreements, with Panama standing firm against any suggestion of interference.
