A major security agreement between the United States and Panama marks a significant shift in control over the strategic waterway linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.
According to France 24, the United States will deploy military personnel to bases along the Panama Canal for training exercises and other activities, following a new deal signed by top security officials from both nations.
The agreement reflects President Donald Trump's determination to counter what he perceives as growing Chinese influence over the vital trade route. While stopping short of allowing permanent U.S. bases, the deal grants American forces broad authority to deploy an unspecified number of troops to facilities previously constructed during U.S. occupation of the canal zone.
Trump administration pushes for canal control
Trump, who returned to power in January, has consistently expressed concerns about China's presence near the strategic waterway. His administration has pledged to regain control of the canal, which handles approximately 40 percent of U.S. container traffic and five percent of global trade.
The memorandum of understanding, signed by Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth and Panama's security chief Frank Abrego, includes provisions recognizing Panama's sovereignty. The host nation will maintain control over installations and must approve any deployments.
Panama's center-right leader, Jose Raul Mulino, revealed that his administration rejected earlier U.S. requests for permanent bases. He emphasized the political sensitivity of such arrangements during discussions with Pentagon officials.
Panamanian response and public reaction
Trade union leader Saul Mendez voiced strong opposition to the agreement, condemning it as an act of treason against national sovereignty. His statements reflect widespread concern among Panamanians about increased U.S. military presence.
Panama's relationship with the United States remains complex, shaped by historical events including the decades-long U.S. occupation of the canal zone. The 1989 U.S. invasion to remove dictator Manuel Noriega, which resulted in over 500 Panamanian casualties and extensive damage to the capital, continues to influence public sentiment.
Mass demonstrations have erupted in response to Trump's statements about reclaiming the canal and his allegations of Chinese influence. These protests underscore the deeply rooted concerns about foreign control over the waterway.
Chinese business interests face pressure
The agreement comes amid increasing scrutiny of Chinese commercial interests in Panama. The Trump administration has targeted Hong Kong-based Panama Ports Company, which has operated facilities at both ends of the canal for decades.
Under U.S. pressure, Panama has accused the company of failing to meet contractual obligations. This led to parent company CK Hutchison announcing plans to sell its canal operations to a BlackRock-led consortium for $19 billion.
Beijing has responded by launching an antitrust review of the proposed sale, indicating growing tensions between global powers over control of the strategic waterway.
Strategic waterway deal reshapes regional dynamics
The security agreement represents a significant development in U.S.-Panama relations, granting American forces unprecedented access to facilities along the Panama Canal. While maintaining formal Panamanian sovereignty, the deal advances Trump's agenda of asserting greater U.S. influence over the vital trade route. The arrangement faces domestic opposition and complicates Panama's relationships with both the United States and China. As regional tensions escalate, the implementation of this agreement will likely continue to generate controversy and shape diplomatic relations between the involved nations.
