Trump demands return of Panama Canal, calls it vital U.S. asset

Donald Trump recently stated that the U.S. will demand the return of the Panama Canal, calling it a vital national asset. He criticized Panama for charging high fees to the U.S. Navy and businesses, claiming this is unfair. Trump emphasized that the canal was given to Panama for management, not for exploitation by other countries. He referenced President Jimmy Carter's decision to transfer control, labeling it a mistake. In his posts on Truth Social, Trump asserted that the U.S. has a vested interest in the canal's operation and warned Panama officials to adhere to the original agreement.