Trump Declares US Will Reclaim Panama Canal, Denies Transfer to China
Oman Horizon Bulletin
Washington, DC: In his inaugural address on Monday, President Donald Trump asserted that the United States would “take back” the Panama Canal, alleging that China has gained operational control over the strategic waterway. He criticized past US leadership for what he called an unjust decision to relinquish control of the canal.
Sworn in as the 47th President at the US Capitol, Trump stated, “The United States spent more money than ever before on a single project and lost 38 lives in the construction of the Panama Canal. We have been treated very unfairly due to this misguided decision, and Panama has broken its promise to us.”
Since winning the US presidential election last November, Trump has repeatedly voiced concerns over Panama’s administration of the canal, particularly regarding fees imposed on American ships. In a post on his Truth Social platform, he criticized the charges as “ridiculous” and “unjust.”
The United States played a pivotal role in constructing the Panama Canal, which opened in 1914. While Washington maintained control for decades, the canal was fully transferred to Panama in 1999 after a joint-administration period.
During his address, Trump also referenced China’s expanding influence near the canal, reinforcing his stance that the US should reclaim its authority over the crucial trade route.
In a surprising remark, he further announced plans to rename the Gulf of Mexico, stating, “A short time from now, we will officially rename it the Gulf of America.”
Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States during the 60th Presidential Inauguration, with Chief Justice John Roberts administering the oath. His speech emphasized a vision of restoring America’s global dominance, pledging that the US would “reclaim its rightful place as the most powerful and respected nation on Earth.”
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