Trump demands Panama lower Canal fees or return it to US – DW – 12/22/2024
www.dw.com
In a post on social media, the incoming US President Donald Trump described fees charged to use the key shipping lane as a "complete 'rip-off.'" He also warned of it falling into the "wrong hands."

Summary

Donald Trump criticized Panama Canal fees as “ridiculous” and demanded lower costs or the canal’s return to the US.

In a Truth Social post, Trump also expressed concern about potential Chinese influence over the waterway, despite no direct Chinese control of canal operations.

The canal, transferred to Panama in 1999, is vital for global trade, handling 5% of maritime traffic.

Trump’s comments follow record revenues of $5 billion announced by the Panama Canal Authority. Panama has not yet responded to his statements.

  • ramble81@lemm.eeEnglish
    53·
    19 hours ago

    I wonder who even brought up the Canal and why? You know there’s no way in hell he thought of that on his own.

    • x00z@lemmy.worldEnglish
      71·
      18 hours ago

      Maybe Troomp checks the economic news for his government picks and saw it:

      Trump’s comments follow record revenues of $5 billion announced by the Panama Canal Authority

      • AA5B@lemmy.worldEnglish
        1·
        10 hours ago

        5% of global maritime trade? Military priority? Cuts weeks off travel between pacific and Atlantic? A monopoly? At the same time, dominating the country’s resources and infrastructure? $5B seems low

      • JohnEdwaEnglish
        4·
        16 hours ago

        $5 billion, woah, that sure is a lot of dosh!
        By stealing all the revenue of the Panama Canal for the US, Trump could fund the US military for… a whopping two days.

        • OutlierBlue@lemmy.caEnglish
          5·
          15 hours ago

          What makes you think he’d do anything for the US? He’ll do it for himself. This entire term will be him and his buddies slashing and looting everything they can.