President-elect Trump slammed the nation of Panama for “exorbitant” tariffs charged by the United States — and threatened to demand control of the key commerce node.
The once and future president deleted two Truth Social posts highlighting the United States’ construction, sale, and current relationship with the acclaimed Panama Canal – which he framed as a national and financial security issue.
“If both the moral and legal principles of this generous gesture of giving are not followed, we will demand that the Panama Canal be returned to us completely and without question.”
Please direct Panamanian authorities accordingly,” The newly elected President wrote on Truth Social on Saturday night“The Panama Canal is considered a vital national asset to the United States because of its vital role in the U.S. economy and national security.”
A secure Panama Canal is vital to American commerce, and rapid deployment of the Navy from the Atlantic to the Pacific, and drastically cuts shipping times to American ports,” he wrote. one more post,
The billionaire explained that shipping from the United States comprises 70% of the traffic through the connector.
Trump also included the historical context of how the man-made wonder was built and shared his views on the circumstances of the transfer of its function.
He wrote, “The Panama Canal was opened for trade 110 years ago, and was built at a heavy cost of lives and treasure to the United States.”
Trump clarified, “When President Jimmy Carter foolishly gave it away for a dollar during his term in office, it was only to be managed by Panama, not China or anyone else.”
Trump also condemned the “exorbitant prices and passage rates” charged by the US military and corporations.
“This complete ‘murder’ of our country must stop immediately,” he wrote, before delivering an ultimatum to the leaders of the nation of Panama. “We will never let it fall into the wrong hands!”
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