Trump threatens to reclaim U.S. control of Panama Canal over Chinese influence concerns

Donald Trump, the president-elect, threatened to reclaim U.S. control over the Panama Canal, claiming Panama charges excessive rates and warning against Chinese influence. This marks a significant shift in U.S. diplomatic rhetoric. Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino responded, asserting Panama's independence and defending the canal's usage rates. He emphasized that China does not control the canal, countering Trump's claims. The Panama Canal, once U.S.-owned, was handed over to Panama in 1999. Trump's comments suggest a potential change in U.S. foreign policy, reminiscent of his past territorial expansion ideas.