Trump demands return of Panama Canal if operations do not meet standards

Donald Trump has stated he would demand the Panama Canal be "returned" to the US if its operation does not meet his standards. This comment has sparked a diplomatic response from Panama's President José Raúl Mulino, who affirmed Panama's sovereignty over the canal. Trump criticized the fees charged by Panama for using the canal, calling them excessive. He claimed the US was being unfairly treated, recalling that control of the canal was handed to Panama in 1999 after a treaty signed in 1977. Mulino defended the canal's rates, stating they are based on market conditions and necessary costs. He emphasized that the canal is not under the control of any foreign power, including China, and highlighted the economic benefits it brings to Panama.