Trump threatens to reclaim control of Panama Canal over shipping fees

Donald Trump has threatened to retake the Panama Canal, claiming Panama charges American ships "exorbitant prices" for passage. He criticized the 1977 treaty that transferred control of the canal from the U.S. to Panama. Trump described the fees as unfair and excessive, stating they range from $0.50 to $300,000 based on vessel size. He emphasized that the U.S. has been generous to Panama and demanded the canal's return if this generosity is not respected. This statement comes after a year marked by a 36 percent reduction in ship crossings due to drought, which has affected global trade. The U.S. is the largest user of the canal, followed by China and Japan.