‘Absolute necessity’: Trump sparks concerns over Panama Canal, Greenland remarks

President-elect Donald Trump has once again sparked controversy with his recent suggestions that the U.S. could take control of Canada, Greenland, and the Panama Canal. In a surprising Christmas Day message posted on Truth Social, Trump raised concerns among world leaders as they try to anticipate his actions in his upcoming second term.

Trump’s post on Truth Social began with holiday greetings before delving into his assertions regarding the Panama Canal. He claimed that U.S. shippers are being charged exorbitant fees to navigate the canal and suggested that Chinese interests are gaining undue influence over the waterway. These claims have been refuted by Panamanian leaders, who have denied any foreign control over the canal.

Moving on to Canada and Greenland, Trump reiterated his previous statements about potentially incorporating these territories into the U.S. He suggested that Canada could benefit from becoming the 51st state, with reduced taxes and increased military protection. As for Greenland, Trump argued that U.S. ownership and control of the territory are essential for national security and global freedom.

These bold assertions have raised concerns among world leaders, who are unsure of how Trump’s expansionist ideas will impact international relations. His proposals seem to contradict his previous “America First” policies, which prioritize domestic concerns over foreign entanglements.

Rep. Ryan Zinke echoed Trump’s concerns about China’s influence in the Panama Canal, emphasizing the strategic importance of the waterway for U.S. national security. However, both Greenland Prime Minister Mute Egede and Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino have firmly rejected Trump’s suggestions, asserting the sovereignty and independence of their respective territories.

Despite the pushback from world leaders, Trump shows no signs of backing down on his expansion claims. He continues to emphasize the importance of a secure Panama Canal for U.S. commerce and national security, urging Panamanian officials to consider the implications of foreign influence over the waterway.

In conclusion, Trump’s provocative statements regarding Canada, Greenland, and the Panama Canal have stirred up international controversy and uncertainty. As world leaders grapple with the implications of his proposed expansion, it remains to be seen how Trump’s second term will unfold and what impact it will have on global geopolitics.