Trump threatens to reclaim control of Panama Canal over fees and management concerns

President-elect Donald Trump has accused Panama of charging excessive fees for the Panama Canal. He threatened to demand the canal's return to the U.S. if Panama does not manage it properly, citing concerns over potential Chinese influence. Trump's comments mark a significant shift in U.S. diplomacy, as he suggests pushing a sovereign nation to relinquish control of territory. The U.S. handed over full control of the canal to Panama in 1999 after decades of administration. In a post on Truth Social, Trump emphasized that the U.S. had been generous to Panama and warned that if Panama does not adhere to certain principles, the canal should be returned to the U.S.