President-elect Donald Trump has thrown down a bold ultimatum to Panama.
The President-elect has threatened to seize the Panama Canal for being unfair to the US businesses and charging high amounts as fees.
What Did Trump Say Actually?
Speaking to a crowd in Arizona, Trump called the current fees “ridiculous” and vowed to stop what he described as a “complete rip-off” once he takes office in January.
“If Panama doesn’t lower these exorbitant prices, we will demand the canal be returned to us—quickly and without question”
The Republican leader labeled the waterway as a “vital national asset” for the US.
Despite the threats, the US President-elect didn’t mention how he was going to convince Panama regarding his proposal.
Panama Fires Back
Panama’s president, José Raúl Mulino, fired back after Trump’s threats.
The President firmly stated that “every square meter” of the canal belongs to Panama and that the nation’s sovereignty is non-negotiable.
