09.04.2025 07:30
A visit has come that will further deepen the recent crisis between the United States and China. U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, who made a landing in Panama, stated, "We will collectively reclaim the Panama Canal from China's influence, and we will do this together with our other capable allies and partners who share the same mindset."
U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth held a joint press conference with President Jose Raul Mulino in Panama City during his visit to Panama.
"WE WILL TAKE IT BACK TOGETHER"
In his speech here, Hegseth pointed to China's influence over the Panama Canal, stating, "We will take the Panama Canal back from China's influence together, and we will do this with our other capable, like-minded allies and partners."
"I WANT TO BE VERY CLEAR"
Hegseth said, "I want to be very clear: China did not build this canal. China does not operate this canal, and China will not arm this canal," arguing that the U.S. relationship with the Central American country will continue to develop.
TRUMP'S WORDS
U.S. President Donald Trump, in a speech he made in Congress in February after taking office, stated, "To further enhance our national security, my administration will take back the Panama Canal."
The U.S. President had previously stated that they aimed to reduce China's influence in Panama, particularly its access to the canal, by increasing the U.S. military presence there.
It is noted that more than 40% of the U.S. container traffic, valued at approximately $270 billion annually, passes through the Panama Canal.