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//Panama Rejects U.S. Claims Over Free Canal Access//

Panama has firmly denied assertions from the U.S. government that it has agreed to allow American vessels to transit the Panama Canal without charge. This follows a statement from the U.S. State Department claiming that such a move would save Washington millions of dollars annually.

Panama Canal Authority Denies Changes

The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) quickly refuted these claims, stating that it retains the sole authority to set tolls and transit fees. The ACP confirmed that no adjustments to these fees had been made.

Despite these denials, U.S. President Donald Trump has consistently voiced his desire to regain control of the waterway, which serves as a crucial passage for global trade.

The 51-mile (82km) Panama Canal is a vital link between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, facilitating the transit of approximately 14,000 ships each year and reducing the need for vessels to navigate the lengthy and hazardous journey around South America’s southern tip.

U.S. Pressures Panama Over Alleged Chinese Influence

During a recent visit to Latin America, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio demanded that Panama take steps to reduce what he described as China’s “influence and control” over the canal. He warned that failure to do so could prompt the U.S. to take action under existing treaties between the two countries.

Rubio’s visit included meetings with Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino and the canal’s administrator, Ricaurte Vásquez Morales. Following these discussions, the ACP reiterated its commitment to working with the U.S. Navy to optimize transit priority for American vessels. However, the authority maintained its stance that no fee waivers had been granted.

Trump’s Renewed Calls for Control

Trump has repeatedly claimed that Panama has not upheld its commitment to neutrality regarding the canal. In his inaugural speech, he asserted that the U.S. should “take back” the waterway, alleging that China was operating it—a claim that Panamanian officials have strongly denied.

President Mulino has rejected Trump’s accusations, insisting that the canal remains under Panama’s full control and operates independently of any foreign influence. He also emphasized that his administration had opted out of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, a global infrastructure-building program.

Despite his dissatisfaction, Trump acknowledged that Panama had “agreed to certain things,” though he did not provide further details. The White House has yet to clarify its position on any concrete steps it may take regarding the canal’s administration.

Historical Context and Ongoing Tensions

The Panama Canal has long been a point of contention between the U.S. and Panama. Originally built by the U.S. in the early 20th century, the canal was handed back to Panama following a 1977 treaty signed by President Jimmy Carter. Trump has repeatedly criticized this agreement, calling it a “big mistake.”

With increasing global trade tensions and geopolitical maneuvering between the U.S. and China, the future of the Panama Canal remains a focal point of international diplomacy. While Panama remains firm in its stance on sovereignty, ongoing pressure from Washington suggests that disputes over the strategic waterway are far from over.