Trump considers demanding Panama return control of the canal
President-elect Donald Trump has accused Panama of charging excessive fees for the Panama Canal. He stated he might demand the canal be returned to the U.S. if Panama does not manage it properly. Trump expressed concerns about potential Chinese influence over the canal. He emphasized that the canal should not be managed by China and criticized Panama's current management. The U.S. transferred control of the canal to Panama in 1999 after decades of administration. Trump's comments mark a notable shift in U.S. diplomacy, reflecting a more confrontational approach.