Threatens to seize control of Panama Canal over 'excessive' fees

Trump threatened to seize control of the Panama Canal, claiming fees were "excessive" and demanding its return to US control. Trump called the Panama Canal a "vital national asset" and stated the US would "demand that the Panama Canal be returned to us" if fees weren't reduced. He claimed Panama was charging "excessive rates" for American passage, which would violate international treaties governing the canal. Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino swiftly dismissed the threats, stating "every square meter" of the canal would remain in Panamanian hands. Anti-American protests erupted across Panama starting December 24. The threat reflected Trump's "America First" nationalist agenda and willingness to violate international agreements for perceived American advantage.

"demand that the Panama Canal be returned to us" — Trump's threat to seize canal from sovereign nation