Russia sounds off on Trump’s threat to retake the Panama Canal

Russia’s foreign ministry has called on President Donald Trump to reaffirm the current international agreement surrounding the Panama Canal and to leave it in control of the nation of Panama. Alexander Shchetinin, the director of Russia’s foreign ministry’s Latin American department, emphasized the importance of respecting the 1977 treaties between the U.S. and Panama, which relinquished American control over the canal by the year 2000 and guaranteed its neutrality.

Shchetinin expressed confidence that President Trump will uphold the existing international legal regime of the canal, which is crucial for maintaining peace and stability in the region. He highlighted the protocol agreement signed by 40 countries, including Russia, to recognize the canal’s neutrality and ensure that it remains safe and open for all nations to use.

In response to President Trump’s criticism of Panama for allegedly allowing China to dominate the canal, Shchetinin stressed the need for both the U.S. and Panama to protect the canal from any threats to its neutrality regime. He also emphasized that the U.S. should refrain from interfering in Panama’s internal affairs and respect the country’s territorial integrity and political independence.

While President Trump has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with the Panama Canal agreement, Shchetinin urged both parties to engage in dialogue to address their concerns without undermining Panama’s sovereignty and ownership of the canal. He emphasized the importance of upholding the spirit of the treaty and ensuring that all nations are treated equally in accordance with the neutrality agreement.

The Panama Canal, a vital maritime trade route that connects the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, plays a significant role in facilitating global commerce and reducing the travel distance for ships. Built by the United States in the early 1900s, the canal has been a key strategic asset for international trade and military operations.

Despite President Trump’s criticisms, Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino reaffirmed the country’s commitment to maintaining control of the canal and upholding its neutrality. He rejected Trump’s claims that the U.S. “gave” the canal to Panama and emphasized that the canal’s administration will remain under Panamanian control.

In conclusion, the Panama Canal continues to be a focal point of international attention, with Russia calling for respect of the existing agreements and President Trump advocating for changes to the current regime. As discussions between the U.S. and Panama unfold, it is essential for both parties to prioritize diplomacy and cooperation to ensure the canal’s continued operation and neutrality.