Summary
Donald Trump criticized Panama Canal fees as “ridiculous” and demanded lower costs or the canal’s return to the US.
In a Truth Social post, Trump also expressed concern about potential Chinese influence over the waterway, despite no direct Chinese control of canal operations.
The canal, transferred to Panama in 1999, is vital for global trade, handling 5% of maritime traffic.
Trump’s comments follow record revenues of $5 billion announced by the Panama Canal Authority. Panama has not yet responded to his statements.
Why is my government, not even in office yet, so offensive that I usually support “the enemy”? Even the fact that so many normal countries and institutions are “the enemy” is so effing ridiculous.
Next thing you know, we’re picking a fight with World Health Organization, because apparently sick and dying kids are “the enemy”