Panama president defends canal sovereignty after Trump's takeover comments

U.S. president-elect Donald Trump threatened to reclaim control of the Panama Canal, claiming Panama charges excessive fees. He expressed concerns about potential Chinese influence over the canal, despite China not controlling it. In response, Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino asserted Panama's sovereignty, stating that the canal's rates are fair and not arbitrary. He emphasized that the canal and its surrounding areas belong to Panama. The U.S. transferred control of the canal to Panama in 1999 after decades of administration. Trump's comments mark a significant shift in U.S. diplomatic rhetoric regarding Panama.