Trump claims China controls Panama Canal, Panama denies influence

Donald Trump recently suggested that the U.S. should reclaim control of the Panama Canal, citing increased fees and alleged Chinese influence. He claimed that China is "illegally" operating the canal, prompting a strong response from Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino. The Panama Canal has been under Panamanian control since December 31, 1999, following treaties that transferred authority to Panama. Mulino emphasized that China does not control the canal, stating that its operations are managed by the Panama Canal Authority, an autonomous agency. While Chinese firms manage two ports at the canal and have invested in infrastructure, this does not mean they control the canal itself. The Panama Canal Authority oversees all operations, and recent tariff increases are aimed at funding improvements.