Trump’s endorsement of the plan to repurchase the Panama Canal raises questions about geopolitical power and economic strategy.
At a Glance
- Rep. Dusty Johnson introduced the “Panama Canal Repurchase Act”.
- The repurchase aims to counter Chinese influence and high shipping costs.
- Trump critiques past treaties and explores potential military force.
- Proposal skepticism exists within the Republican Party.
Legislative Proposal by Rep. Dusty Johnson
Rep. Dusty Johnson introduced a bill named the “Panama Canal Repurchase Act,” which would allow the President to negotiate the purchase of the Panama Canal. Advocates of this bill see it as a strategic move to reclaim control over this critical waterway, currently under Panama’s sovereignty since the Torrijos-Carter Treaties in 1977. This proposal reflects concerns over rising fees and China’s growing influence over the canal.
Johnson suggests reacquiring this vital trade route for just a symbolic $1. The act mandates the president report to Congress within 180 days to address the progress and complication of negotiations. Trump, advocating for this effort, views it as a means to enhance national interests and promote American independence from foreign monetary burdens.
Trump not ruling out military force to control Greenland, Panama Canal https://t.co/lhgJg3DupQ
— Voice of America (@VOANews) January 8, 2025
America First and Strategic Interests
President-elect Trump supports the effort, emphasizing the repurchase aligns with his “America First” policy, aiming to regain strategic assets significant to national security. Expressing his views, Trump heavily criticized the decision made under the Carter administration, considering it a grave misstep. He is further contemplating potential military action, highlighting the canal’s importance for American commerce and safety.
Trump strongly believes in counteracting foreign influence and restoring U.S. control over major international trade zones, propelled mainly by the presence of China’s interests in the region.
He asserts, “I’m not going to commit to that. It might be that you have to do something. Look, the Panama Canal is vital to our country, it’s being operated by China, China. And we gave the Panama Canal to Panama, we didn’t give it to China.”
US President-elect Donald Trump declined to rule out military or economic action as part of his desire to have the US take back control of the Panama Canal and acquire the Danish territory of Greenland https://t.co/sLjgWCzZTH pic.twitter.com/0slbojDHLf
— Reuters (@Reuters) January 8, 2025
Opposition and Challenges
The suggestion has met skepticism within the Republican Party, particularly voiced by Senate Armed Services Committee Chair Roger Wicker, who stated, “I think he was speaking aspirationally.” This sentiment reflects doubts about the feasibility and diplomatic implications of such a significant geopolitical shift.
Johnson remains steadfast, asserting America’s necessity to project strength globally and urging the government to take determined steps towards the canal’s ownership. He proclaimed, “President Trump is right to consider repurchasing the Panama Canal. China’s interest in and presence around the canal is a cause for concern. America must project strength abroad – owning and operating the Panama Canal might be an important step towards a stronger America and a more secure globe.”