U.S. threatens to "take back" Panama Canal, sparking international crisis
The U.S. President threatened to retake the Panama Canal, falsely claiming China operates it. Panama filed a complaint with the United Nations citing threats against territorial integrity. The crisis led to controversial security agreements allowing U.S. troops on Panamanian territory.
What We Know
- President stated "we're taking it back" in inaugural address
- Falsely claimed "China is operating the Panama Canal"
- Panama filed formal UN complaint citing Article 2(4) of UN Charter
- China does not operate the canal - a Hong Kong company operates terminals, like many international companies
- Security agreements signed allowing U.S. troop exercises for three years
- Hutchison Holdings agreed to sell port terminals to BlackRock-led consortium
- Panama president declared crisis over in January 2026
What We Don't Know
- Whether security agreements were signed under coercion
- Long-term implications for Panama's sovereignty
- Status of port terminal sale
Common Misstatements
China does not "operate" the Panama Canal. Panama has full sovereignty. A Hong Kong company operates port terminals, as do many international companies.