Potential plans range from partnering more closely with the Panamanian military to a less likely option of U.S. troops seizing the canal by force, U.S. officials told NBC News.

Summary

The Trump administration has directed the U.S. military to develop plans for increasing its presence in Panama, aiming to “reclaim” the Panama Canal and counter China’s influence.

Options range from security partnerships to a highly unlikely military seizure of the canal.

Trump views a visible U.S. military presence as essential, while Panama denies any foreign interference.

The move follows Panama’s rejection of a key Chinese infrastructure deal. U.S. firms, including BlackRock, are investing in Panama’s ports as part of efforts to limit China’s role in the region.

  • floofloof@lemmy.ca
    20·
    1 day ago

    U.S. Southern Command is developing potential plans that vary from partnering more closely with the Panamanian military to the less likely option of U.S. troops seizing the Panama Canal by force, the officials said. Whether military force is used, the officials added, depends on how much the Panamanian military agrees to partner with the U.S.

    So either you give it to us or we kill you and take it. The American way.