Donald Trump has caused a stir by demanding that U.S. military and commercial vessels travel through the Panama and Suez Canals without paying fees. In a recent social media post, Trump claimed these crucial routes wouldn’t exist without American help. He ordered U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to act quickly on the issue.
This is a major shift from Trump’s previous calls for U.S. control over the Panama Canal, a request that has raised eyebrows around the world.
Panama Rejects Trump’s Demands
Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino has firmly rejected Trump’s claim. He stressed that the Panama Canal Authority controls tolls, and there are no exceptions to this rule. Panama insists that its canal operates under international laws and must stay neutral.
Earlier, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth visited Panama and suggested U.S. warships could pass “first and free.” He also proposed bringing back U.S. troops to secure the canal. Panama quickly shot down the idea, saying there was no need for foreign soldiers to protect the canal. This waterway remains vital for both the U.S. and China, two of its largest users.
Suez Canal Faces Economic Challenges
The Suez Canal is also facing major financial troubles. Houthi rebels have launched attacks in the Red Sea, disrupting shipping and hurting Egypt’s economy. These attacks have caused a 60% drop in the canal’s revenue, amounting to a $7 billion loss for Egypt.
As a result, ships are being forced to reroute around Africa. This change adds weeks to their travel times and raises shipping costs for companies worldwide.
Trump’s Plan for Military Action
Trump’s demand for free passage through the Panama and Suez Canals is part of a larger strategy to assert U.S. dominance over global trade routes. In addition to his claims on the canals, Trump has ordered more U.S. military strikes against Houthi rebel positions in Yemen. His goal is to protect the vital shipping lanes in the Red Sea.
Trump’s administration has long been focused on securing U.S. interests in the Middle East, especially when it comes to oil shipments. The Houthi attacks have posed a significant threat to these shipping routes, which are essential for the global economy.
Global Trade Routes Under Pressure
The Panama and Suez Canals are two of the world’s most important shipping lanes. The Panama Canal links the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, while the Suez Canal connects Europe to Asia. Both are key to the movement of goods, including oil, consumer goods, and raw materials.
Trump’s demand for free passage through these canals would change the way international trade is handled. While U.S. military vessels might benefit, the move could cause major problems for other countries that use these routes regularly. If the U.S. is allowed to pass for free, other nations may demand the same right. This could lead to chaos and competition among countries to secure their own advantages on global trade routes.
The Impact on Diplomacy
Trump’s proposal raises several diplomatic concerns. While it may benefit the U.S. in the short term, it could lead to strained relations with Panama, Egypt, and other nations that depend on the canals. Critics argue that giving free passage to U.S. vessels could be seen as a form of imperialism, where the U.S. imposes its will on smaller nations.
The Panama Canal and the Suez Canal are both run by sovereign nations. These nations have the right to regulate their own waterways. If Trump’s demands were to be accepted, it could undermine their authority and cause long-lasting political tensions.
The Future of U.S. Control Over Shipping Routes
It remains unclear whether Trump’s demand will have any long-term impact on the Panama and Suez Canals. Both Panama and Egypt have made it clear that they will not bend to U.S. pressure. The canals are governed by international agreements, and any changes would require the cooperation of many countries.
The U.S. continues to have a strong military presence in the region, and its economic influence is significant. However, Trump’s demand for free passage could lead to a reevaluation of existing agreements, and other countries may start to push back against U.S. dominance in global trade.
Trump’s Strategy Moving Forward
Despite the pushback, Trump has continued to advocate for U.S. control over critical shipping routes. His actions are part of a broader strategy to assert American power on the world stage. However, his approach has raised alarms among international leaders who fear the long-term consequences of U.S. dominance over these important canals.
For now, the future of U.S. shipping in the Panama and Suez Canals remains uncertain. However, the global implications of Trump’s demand for free passage will continue to unfold in the coming months.