Trump suggests 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 called the original transfer a "foolish" decision. 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 Arizona, where he also highlighted his plans for a strong economy and unity within the Republican Party. His comments come amid ongoing budget negotiations in Congress, which he did not address directly.