On February 2, 2025, President Trump asserted the need for the US to reassert control over the Panama Canal, citing China's increasing influence in the region as a threat to national security. This call gained momentum during Secretary of State Marco Rubio's visit to Panama, where he met with President Mulino, who strongly opposed any negotiations regarding the canal's status. While Trump mentioned the possibility of military action to reclaim the canal, Rubio emphasized it as a core national interest, indicating concerns over China's operations in the area.
"They've already offered to do many things, but we think it's appropriate that we take it back," Trump said on Friday, adding that Panama had violated agreements by allowing excessive Chinese involvement.
"I cannot negotiate, much less open a process of negotiations on the canal," Mulino said Thursday, saying that the issue 'is sealed.' "},{
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