Trump suggests reclaiming control of Panama Canal over high fees

Donald Trump, the US President-elect, suggested that his administration might seek to regain control of the Panama Canal, claiming the US was "foolishly" charged high fees for its use. He criticized the current fee structure and called for the canal's return to the US. The Panama Canal has faced challenges due to droughts in 2023, which reduced the number of ships allowed to cross. Although conditions have improved, fees for crossing are expected to rise next year. In response, Panama's President Jose Raul Mulino asserted that the canal belongs to Panama and that fees are determined by experts based on operational costs. He emphasized the importance of the canal to Panama's economy and sovereignty.