Trump demands free access to Panama, Suez canals for the U.S. navy
President Donald Trump issued a demand concerning American units. In a statement on the Truth Social platform, he tasked Secretary of State Marco Rubio with immediately addressing the issue of free access to the Panama and Suez Canals for the U.S. fleet and navy.
The Panama Canal, the narrowest part of the isthmus connecting North and South America, allows ships to quickly move between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Approximately 40% of the United States' annual container transport passes through this strategic waterway, highlighting its vital importance to the American economy.
The Egyptian Suez Canal, linking the Mediterranean Sea with the Red Sea, is one of the most strategic commercial waterways in the world. Its importance to global maritime transport is invaluable, as it significantly shortens the route between Europe and Asia.
History of American involvement in the Panama Canal
The United States completed the construction of the Panama Canal in the early 20th century but transferred control over this strategic route to Panama's authorities in 1999. Since taking office in January this year, President Trump has repeatedly expressed the desire to restore American control over the canal, not excluding the use of military means.
Trump accuses the Panamanian authorities of charging excessively high fees to American ships and of allowing Chinese influence in managing this crucial waterway. These allegations are part of a broader Trump administration policy aimed at reducing Chinese influence in the Latin American region.
In early April, an intergovernmental agreement was signed under which Panama agreed to allow U.S. military personnel to be stationed near the canal and its adjacent areas. However, it should be noted that this agreement explicitly excludes the establishment of permanent U.S. military bases on Panamanian territory.
President Trump's demands for free access to both canals could significantly impact diplomatic relations with both Panama and Egypt. Both countries derive significant income from fees for using these strategic waterways, and any potential exemption of American units from these fees would mean substantial financial losses for them.
