Trump criticizes Panama's shipping fee increases for canal use

President-elect Donald Trump is criticizing Panama for raising shipping fees to use the Panama Canal. He has threatened to demand the canal's return to the U.S. if changes are not made after he takes office next month. The Panama Canal, which opened in 1914, was controlled by the U.S. until it was handed over to Panama in 1999 under treaties signed in the 1970s. Since then, Panama has managed the canal more efficiently, and recent fee increases are due to drought-related shipping restrictions. Experts state that Trump cannot reclaim control of the canal without military action, as the treaties do not allow for such a move. Panama's President has affirmed that the canal is sovereign to Panama and that fees are set based on operational needs.