Trump Calls Out Panama

President Donald Trump made it clear this weekend: American military and commercial ships should not be forced to pay to travel through the Panama Canal or the Suez Canal — two critical arteries of global trade that exist today because of the leadership and sacrifice of the United States.

President Trump declared Saturday on Truth Social that American military and commercial ships should be granted free passage through the Panama and Suez Canals, emphasizing that these vital waterways owe their very existence to the United States.

Trump has instructed Secretary of State Marco Rubio to move quickly to secure this priority, emphasizing that the future of U.S. economic security depends on maintaining unrestricted access to these vital global trade routes.

The State Department has been contacted for comment.

Trump Prioritizes American Sovereignty and Economic Security

For months, President Trump has warned about growing foreign control over the Panama Canal, especially by China. Before taking office this year, Trump declared that the canal is essential for America’s economic future and national security — even suggesting that military options could be on the table if necessary to protect U.S. interests.

Panama’s President, José Raúl Mulino, insists that his country will continue controlling the canal. However, conservatives argue that ceding the canal in 1999 was a strategic blunder that endangered America’s global leadership.

Earlier this month, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth visited Panama to reaffirm the Trump administration’s commitment to working with allies to push back against China’s expanding influence over the canal.

Securing Global Trade Routes for America’s Future

In addition to focusing on the Panama Canal, President Trump is demanding that American vessels be granted free passage through the Suez Canal in Egypt. The Suez Canal, operational since 1869, connects the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea and plays a major role in international shipping.

Today, nearly 15% of global trade flows through the Suez Canal each year, making it a lifeline for global commerce and a cornerstone of American economic power.

However, global trade has faced serious threats recently, including attacks on commercial vessels by Houthi rebels operating near Yemen. These ongoing risks make it even more urgent for the United States to assert control and ensure the safe passage of American ships.

Restoring America’s Dominance on the High Seas

Under President Trump’s bold leadership, protecting America’s ships, restoring control over critical waterways, and safeguarding U.S. sovereignty are once again top national priorities.

The Trump administration remains committed to securing America’s destiny — ensuring that no foreign power will ever again control the pathways that are vital to our prosperity, our security, and our freedom.