In a significant diplomatic shift, Panama's President Jose Raul Mulino Quintero announced that the country will not renew its engagement with China's Belt and Road Initiative, following a visit from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. This decision reflects the growing influence of U.S. policies under President Trump, who has vocally criticized Panama's management of the canal and hinted at drastic measures. The Panamanian government is also reviewing port operations and extending U.S. Navy ships an exemption from canal transit fees, amidst concerns over increased Chinese influence since 2017.
"President Trump spoke loudly and swung a big stick in Panama's direction, and it produced instantaneous results on Sunday when Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited the small Central American nation."
"Fear of his boss, who is determined to throw his weight around in our hemisphere in a way we haven't seen from a US president in 100 years or so, is opening up doors."
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