In a recent statement, President-elect Donald Trump has threatened to demand the return of the Panama Canal to the United States due to what he describes as “ridiculous” fees charged for its use by American ships. This warning was issued via Trump’s Truth Social platform, where he lambasted the current fee structure and warned of potential geopolitical risks.

Trump criticized the fees as being excessively high, especially considering the historical generosity of the U.S. towards Panama. “The fees being charged by Panama are ridiculous, especially knowing the extraordinary generosity that has been bestowed to Panama by the U.S.,” Trump stated, adding, “This complete ‘rip-off’ of our Country will immediately stop.”

The Panama Canal, a critical maritime route connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, was constructed by the United States in the early 20th century and was handed over to Panama in 1999 under treaties signed during the administration of President Jimmy Carter. Trump has historically criticized this transfer, and now he’s hinting at a possible reclamation if current conditions persist.

He went on to express concerns about the canal potentially falling into the “wrong hands,” with a specific mention of Chinese influence, which he suggested must be prevented. “We would and will NEVER let it fall into the wrong hands! It was not given for the benefit of others, but merely as a token of cooperation with us and Panama,” Trump wrote.

His statements have stirred discussions about U.S. foreign policy and the sovereignty of international infrastructure. The U.S. is the largest user of the canal, with approximately three-quarters of the cargo transiting through it being American. However, his threats raise questions about international law, the sanctity of treaties, and the potential for diplomatic tension with Panama.

Panama has yet to issue an official response, but there’s anticipation for a formal statement from the government or the Panama Canal Authority in the coming days. This situation could have implications for U.S.-Panama relations and might influence global trade dynamics, given the canal’s importance to international shipping.

The discourse around this issue is also reflected in various posts on X, where opinions range from support for Trump’s stance to concerns over the implications of such a policy shift. These online discussions highlight the complexity and sensitivity of revisiting control over such an essential global asset.