Trump suggests reclaiming Panama Canal amid rising tariffs and Chinese influence concerns

Donald Trump, the president-elect, has suggested the U.S. might reclaim the Panama Canal, citing rising tariffs and concerns over Chinese influence. He criticized Panama for high usage fees and claimed the canal was "foolishly given away" by the U.S. Panama's President Jose Raul Mulino responded, asserting that the canal belongs to Panama and that tariffs are based on expert assessments. He denied any Chinese control over the canal and emphasized Panama's sovereignty. The Panama Canal, completed in 1914, was controlled by the U.S. until 1999 when it was transferred to Panama. The canal is vital for global trade, handling over 14,000 vessels annually.