Trump hints at reclaiming control of Panama Canal in rally remarks

Donald Trump has suggested that his upcoming administration may seek to regain control of the Panama Canal, which the U.S. handed over to Panama in 1999. He criticized current fees for shipping as excessive and claimed the U.S. was "ripped off." Panama's President José Raúl Mulino rejected Trump's comments, asserting that the canal is vital to Panama's economy and sovereignty. He emphasized that shipping fees are determined by experts based on operational costs and demand. Trump made these remarks during a rally in Phoenix, Arizona, where he also discussed his plans for a strong economy and border security. He did not provide details on how he would pursue reclaiming the canal.