Trump threatens to reassert US control over Panama Canal citing fees and Chinese influence

US President-elect Donald Trump has threatened to reassert US control over the Panama Canal, a vital shipping route. He cited high fees and concerns about Chinese influence as reasons for his stance. The Panama Canal, an 82-kilometer waterway, connects the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, significantly shortening travel for ships. The canal has been under Panamanian control since December 31, 1999, following a treaty signed by President Jimmy Carter. In response, Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino rejected Trump's claims, asserting that the canal's tariffs are fair and that Panama's sovereignty is non-negotiable. He emphasized that the canal is not under foreign control.