(ReclaimingAmerica.net) – In a new instance of a bold action on the global stage by the Trump administration, the new U.S. Secretary of State has warned Panama over China’s presence near the vital Panama Canal.
See the tweet below!
The looming shadow of China’s presence over the Panama Canal is stirring perfectly justified concerns across the United States.
As Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino, the diplomatic battleground intensified.
America isn’t just watching—it’s preparing to act if necessary.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s landmark visit to Panama on Sunday marks a pivotal moment in U.S. foreign policy.
Tasked with addressing the encroaching influence of China on the Panama Canal, Rubio delivered a stern warning to the Panamanian government: curb China’s influence or face potential U.S. retaliation.
This stance underscores America’s commitment to staunchly oppose China’s influence over strategic global infrastructures and protect its interests.
Panama, however, remains resolute, with President Mulino asserting the nation’s sovereignty over the canal.
Panama’s sovereignty over its prized canal became a fiery topic as protests erupted in Panama City.
Demonstrators burned banners bearing the images of Trump and Rubio, passionately declaring their national independence.
Meanwhile, Trump’s administration has been vocal about reclaiming control over the canal, citing treaty violations due to China’s increasing presence.
The demand showcases the Trump administration’s determined approach to foreign policy in Latin America, reminiscent of the U.S.’s assertive actions during the early 20th century.
In response to the burgeoning influence of China, Rubio remained clear that the status quo is unacceptable and that America may take action under its existing treaty with Panama.
Rubio’s visit is part of America’s broader effort to reassert its influence in the western hemisphere.
The strategic importance of the Panama Canal to global trade, particularly to the U.S., cannot be underestimated.
The canal remains a vital artery for goods, military logistics, and geopolitical strategy, which China’s involvement could severely threaten.
United in their resolve, the Panamanian government firmly rejected U.S. attempts to administer the canal or significantly reduce canal fees.
I met with Panamanian President @JoseRaulMulino and Foreign Minister @javierachapma to make clear that the United States cannot, and will not, allow the Chinese Communist Party to continue with its effective and growing control over the Panama Canal area. We also discussed… pic.twitter.com/Hj0pXGahqk
— Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) February 2, 2025
Additionally, Panama will not renew its agreement with China’s Belt and Road Initiative, expressing cautions over the potential indebtment traps associated with such deals.
Despite this, potential compromises remain under speculation, with talk of changing the canal’s operational management from a Hong Kong-based company to another entity.
Trump criticized a recent audit concession from Panama as insufficient, reiterating the desire to take back control of the canal.
Despite friction, there are ongoing talks, with Panama acknowledging concerns and conducting an audit of the consortium leading canal operations.
Meanwhile, Secretary Rubio is also addressing broader regional issues, including cooperation on migration challenges, even amidst a U.S. aid freeze impacting related programs.
Rubio extends his diplomatic tour to El Salvador, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic to refocus U.S. diplomacy in Latin America.
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