Trump threatens to demand ownership of Panama Canal in full

President-elect Trump called out the nation of Panama for the “exorbitant” fees it charges the United States — and threatened to demand control of the key commerce node.The once and future president fired off two Truth Social posts highlighting the United States’ construction, sale, and current relations with the vaunted Panama Canal — which he framed as an issue of national and financial security.“If the principles, both moral and legal, of this magnanimous gesture of giving are not followed, then we will demand that the Panama Canal be returned to us, in full, and without questionTo the Officials of Panama, please be guided accordingly,” the President-elect wrote on Truth Social Saturday night.“The Panama Canal is considered a VITAL National Asset for the United States, due to its critical role to America’s Economy and National Security.”A secure Panama Canal is crucial for US Commerce, and rapid deployment of the Navy, from the Atlantic to the Pacific, and drastically cuts shipping times to US ports,” he wrote in another post.The billionaire detailed that shipping to and from the United States comprises 70% of traffic through the connector.Trump also included the historical context of how the man-made wonder was built and shared his thoughts on the circumstances of the transfer of its deed.“The Panama Canal opened for business 110 years ago, and was built at HUGE cost to the United States in lives and treasure,” he wrote.“When President Jimmy Carter foolishly gave it away, for One Dollar, during his term in Office, it was solely for Panama to manage, not China, or anyone else,” Trump expounded.Trump further decried “exorbitant prices and rates of passage” charged to US military and corporations.“This complete ‘rip-off’ of our Country will immediately stop,” he wrote, before introducing the ultimatum to the leaders of the nation of Panama.

“We would and will NEVER let it fall into the wrong hands!”...