Trump’s Plan to Reclaim the Panama Canal Gains Momentum

Former National Security Adviser Robert O’Brien revealed this week that Donald Trump is serious about a bold proposal: reclaiming the Panama Canal to safeguard U.S. economic and security interests. The move, sparked by growing Chinese influence over the strategic waterway, has gained traction as experts warn of the risks posed by Beijing’s grip on global shipping infrastructure.

Speaking during a Sunday interview on Fox News, O’Brien criticized former President Jimmy Carter’s decision to hand control of the canal back to Panama in 1977, labeling it “a tremendous act of generosity, and probably foolish.” While the transfer was contingent on the canal remaining neutral, O’Brien argued that Panama has failed to uphold its obligations.

Key Concerns Highlighted by O’Brien:

• Chinese Control: Ports at both ends of the canal are now under the control of Chinese companies, raising fears of espionage and potential disruptions.

• Economic Exploitation: With 75% of canal traffic tied to U.S. imports or exports, higher shipping costs imposed by Chinese operators disproportionately impact American commerce.

• Strategic Risks: Revenue generated from the canal could be funding China’s military expansion, posing a direct threat to U.S. national security.

Even left-leaning outlets like The New York Times have acknowledged China’s growing influence over the canal. “They could shut it down without military efforts,” O’Brien warned, emphasizing that Beijing’s control represents a critical vulnerability for the United States.

Trump’s position is clear: while the U.S. is open to Panama managing the canal, significant changes must be made to address Chinese interference. “That doesn’t work for America anymore,” O’Brien asserted, hinting that a failure to resolve the issue could prompt decisive action from a future Trump administration.

This renewed focus on the Panama Canal underscores Trump’s commitment to reversing decades of questionable foreign policy decisions. As China continues its aggressive push for dominance in trade and military power, securing this vital passageway may prove crucial in safeguarding American interests.

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