Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Trump's Panama Canal Comments Ignite Nationalist Pride

1/23/2025

28 3

Summary

Story summary

During his inauguration, President Donald Trump stirred controversy by calling the Panama Canal a "foolish gift" to Panama, expressing a desire to reclaim it. In a strong rebuttal, President José Raúl Mulino defended Panama's sovereignty, emphasizing that the canal has belonged to the nation since 1999. Trump's remarks have sparked a wave of nationalist pride among Panamanians.

History

Historical Context

During his inauguration, President Trump’s remark about the Panama Canal as a “foolish gift” echoes historical U.S. attitudes towards the canal, which was controlled by the U.S. until 1999. The canal’s handover marked a significant shift in U.S.-Panama relations, highlighting Panama's sovereignty. Trump's comments have reignited nationalist sentiments in Panama, reminiscent of past tensions over U.S. intervention in Latin America.

1 of 2

Story summary

During his inauguration, President Donald Trump stirred controversy by calling the Panama Canal a "foolish gift" to Panama, expressing a desire to reclaim it. In a strong rebuttal, President José Raúl Mulino defended Panama's sovereignty, emphasizing that the canal has belonged to the nation since 1999. Trump's remarks have sparked a wave of nationalist pride among Panamanians.

1 / 2