Trump Discusses Control of Panama Canal, Greenland

During a press conference at Mar-a-Lago, President-elect Donald Trump indicated he would not rule out the use of military force to gain control of both the Panama Canal and Greenland, emphasizing their importance for U.S. economic and national security. Trump criticized China’s involvement in the Panama Canal, claiming it was unjust that the canal is not operated by the U.S. He expressed a desire for Greenland, which is part of Danish territory, stating it is necessary for national security, and questioned Denmark's legal claim to it. Additionally, Trump mentioned he would consider using economic force regarding Canada, joking about it becoming the 51st state. He reflected on historical context, asserting that the decision to give control of the Panama Canal to Panama was detrimental and attributed Jimmy Carter's electoral loss partly to this issue. Trump's comments revive discussions from his first presidential term, where he similarly sought to acquire Greenland.