US preparing plans to strengthen its military presence in Panama - Media
Photo: US President Donald Trump (Getty Images)
The US is preparing plans to strengthen its military presence in Panama. This is part of the strategy of US President Donald Trump's administration, NBC News reports.
According to two US officials, the White House has instructed the US military to develop options for increasing the presence of American troops in Panama to achieve President Trump's goal of "reclaiming" the Panama Canal.
The news agency noted that during a joint address to Congress last week, Trump stated, "To further enhance our national security, my administration will be reclaiming the Panama Canal."
Currently, according to anonymous sources, the US command is developing potential plans ranging from closer partnership with the Panamanian military to the less likely option of a forcible takeover of the Panama Canal by US troops.
At the same time, anonymous officials noted that whether military force would be used depends on how willing the Panamanian military is to cooperate with the US.
Anonymous sources emphasized that the goal of the Trump administration is to increase the US military presence in Panama to reduce China's influence in the country.
US-Panama cooperation
Earlier, US President Donald Trump made several statements about his intention to regain US control over the Panama Canal. He also refused to rule out the possible use of military force to achieve this. Among other things, Trump spoke about "violations of agreements" and claimed that China was allegedly "running" the canal.
Trump's remarks regarding the Panama Canal sparked criticism from Latin American countries and several other nations.
Previously, Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino stated that his country manages the canal, which is vital for global trade, including with the United States. Mulino emphasized that the canal "is and will remain Panamanian."
On February 2, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited Panama. During a meeting with the president, he issued an ultimatum regarding the Panama Canal.
The following day, it was reported that after Rubio's visit, the Panamanian president agreed not to extend agreements with China. This concerns China's Belt and Road Initiative, and the agreement with Beijing may be terminated earlier than planned.
Last month, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth held talks with Panama’s Minister of Public Security Frank Alexis Abrego and President José Raúl Mulino.
During the discussions, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the Panama Canal and "agreed to expand cooperation between the US military and Panama’s security forces."
