The Panama Canal has returned to US strategic focus following the release of the new National Security Strategy by US President Donald Trump, reported Saint Petersburg's PortNews.
Although the canal was not mentioned directly, the strategy seeks to prevent foreign ownership of key assets in the region. President Trump reinforced the issue days earlier, claiming the administration had restored privileged US access through the canal.
In December 2024 Trump threatened to restore control over the canal, repeating the claim at his January 2025 inauguration. Panama's president Jose Raul Mulino responded that the canal remains Panamanian and operates under permanent neutrality.
In April Panama and the US Department of Defense signed a cooperation memorandum on maintaining neutrality, sparking protests in Panama City. Activists warned of possible deployment of US troops around the canal.
Analysts from Carnegie and the Baker Institute said Washington's renewed focus reflects a tougher regional stance and raises uncertainty for neighbouring states. For shipping, the debate adds to existing challenges from drought that forced carriers to reroute via the Suez or Cape Horn.
https://www.shippingazette.com/news?news_id=9251200000239
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