US Pledges to Reclaim Panama Canal from China

During a historic visit to Panama, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized the U.S. commitment to reducing Chinese influence over the strategically vital Panama Canal, where over 40% of U.S. container traffic passes. Hegseth, the first U.S. defense secretary to visit Panama in decades, pledged to work closely with Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino to secure the canal and prevent it from being 'weaponized' by Chinese interests. This visit follows Panama's withdrawal from China's Belt and Road Initiative and ongoing concerns regarding Chinese investments in the region. Hegseth's remarks included a clear stance against allowing China to exert control over the canal, asserting that it should remain under Panamanian stewardship. The Trump administration has previously suggested more aggressive measures, including military options, to ensure U.S. interests in the region. Despite the U.S. assertions, a significant majority of Panamanians believe the canal should remain in local hands, highlighting the delicate balance of U.S.-Panama relations.