Trump demands free naval access through Panama and Suez Canal
President Donald Trump issued a demand regarding American naval units. In a message on the Truth Social platform, he instructed Secretary of State Marco Rubio to immediately address the issue of ensuring free access to the Panama and Suez Canals for the American fleet and navy.
The Panama Canal, the narrowest part of the isthmus connecting North and South America, allows ships to quickly move between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Approximately 40% of the United States' annual container transport passes through this strategic waterway, highlighting its critical importance to the American economy.
The Egyptian Suez Canal, connecting the Mediterranean Sea with the Red Sea, is one of the world's most strategic trade waterways. Its importance to global maritime transport is invaluable, as it significantly shortens the route between Europe and Asia.
History of American involvement in the Panama Canal
The United States completed the construction of the Panama Canal in the early 20th century, but in 1999 handed over control of this strategic route to the authorities of Panama. Since taking office in January of this year, President Trump has repeatedly expressed a desire to restore American control over the canal, not ruling out the use of military means.
Trump accuses the Panamanian authorities of charging excessively high fees to American ships and allowing Chinese influence to manage this critical waterway. These accusations are part of a broader Trump administration policy aimed at limiting Chinese influence in the Latin American region.
In early April, an intergovernmental agreement was signed under which Panama agreed to allow an American military presence near the canal and in adjacent areas. However, it should be noted that this agreement explicitly excludes the possibility of establishing permanent US military bases on Panamanian territory.
President Trump’s demands for free access to both canals could significantly affect diplomatic relations with both Panama and Egypt. Both countries derive substantial income from fees for using these strategic waterways, and the potential exemption of American units from fees would mean significant financial losses for them.
