Panama president rejects Trump's claims of Chinese control over canal

Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino dismissed U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's claims that Chinese soldiers control the Panama Canal. Mulino stated there are no Chinese soldiers at the canal and called Trump's assertions "nonsense." Trump made these claims in a Christmas message, suggesting that the U.S. is being exploited by Panama. He threatened to take control of the canal due to perceived high fees. Mulino emphasized that Panama's sovereignty is not negotiable. Mulino clarified that the canal is fully owned and operated by Panama, with no Chinese involvement. He noted that any Chinese presence is limited to tourists visiting the canal.