Trump Directs Military Planning for Potential Invasion of Panama Canal

President Trump has instructed the U.S. military to prepare plans for potentially retaking the Panama Canal, with options ranging from military cooperation with Panama to potential invasion. This action is framed as a means to enhance U.S. national and economic security, although specific plans and claims about control by foreign powers remain ambiguous.

Recently, it has come to light that President Donald Trump has ordered the Pentagon to devise plans to potentially retake the Panama Canal. According to two U.S. officials familiar with the matter, these plans may range from fostering closer military cooperation with Panama to a scenario involving military intervention. The decision to invade would greatly depend on the cooperation from the Panamanian armed forces.

Trump has persistently indicated that he has not ruled out military options to regain control over the canal, a significant waterway constructed by the United States. In a recent address to Congress, Trump emphasized that reclaiming the canal is essential for enhancing national security, although the specifics of what “reclaiming” entails remain unclear.

The Republican President asserts that the imperative to regain control of the Panama Canal is driven by concerns of economic security. Furthermore, he has made unfounded claims about the canal being “operated by China,” which raises concerns over the reasons behind his aggressive stance toward this important maritime route.

In conclusion, President Trump’s directive to prepare for potential military action regarding the Panama Canal highlights the tension surrounding U.S. interests in the region. The administration’s lack of clarity on the intentions behind the term “reclaiming” remains troubling, particularly in the context of economic assertions about foreign control of the canal. This situation warrants close observation to understand the implications of these developments on U.S. foreign policy and relations with Panama.

Original Source: www.commondreams.org