Rubio Urges Panama to Curb Chinese Influence Over Canal Amidst Tensions

Rubio's meeting with Panama's President sparks backlash from Panamanians as they express deep-rooted sentiments against U.S. interference following Trump's controversial remarks about the canal's ownership.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Panama City demanding immediate action from the Panamanian government to diminish Chinese influence over the Panama Canal. He articulated that if Panama fails to address what he termed China's "control," the United States would take necessary measures based on an existing treaty between the nations. This warning follows President Donald Trump's alarming pledge to "retake" the canal, leading to significant concerns in Panama about U.S. military intervention.

During a two-hour meeting with conservative Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino, both leaders emerged with contrasting views. Mulino, addressing reporters, expressed skepticism about any imminent U.S. military threats regarding the canal and suggested technical discussions to resolve U.S. concerns over Chinese presence.

However, Trump's promise to reclaim the canal has ignited widespread protests in Panama City, with demonstrators recently burning effigies of both Trump and Rubio. Clashes with riot police, resulting in the use of tear gas, reflected a growing frustration among Panamanians, who largely perceive Trump's comments as an affront to their sovereignty.

Mulino firmly rejected any negotiations concerning the canal's ownership, emphasizing that it rightfully belongs to Panama, a sentiment echoed by citizens who have vivid memories of prior U.S. control. One resident, who preferred not to disclose her last name, criticized Trump's remarks and insisted on her country’s rights as defined in the 1979 treaty that transferred control of the canal to Panama in 1999.

Trump's claims, particularly his unfounded assertion that Chinese soldiers operate the canal, provoked outrage, drawing attention to previous U.S. interventions in Panama. Former congressman Edwin Cabrera recalled the traumatic memories associated with the 1989 invasion that ousted General Manuel Noriega, expressing a strong disdain for any potential repetition of such history.

Despite the cooperation between the U.S. and Panama, Rubio's visit emphasizes the administration's zero-tolerance policy towards regions perceived as succumbing to Chinese influence, arguing that such dynamics could threaten U.S. maritime operations in future conflicts.

Moreover, while ordinary Panamanians rally around the principle of national ownership over the canal, discontent with their government persists, as locals express concerns about the economic benefits from the canal not reaching the wider population. Hotel worker Andre Howell pointed out that U.S. rhetoric surrounding reclaiming the canal is a direct consequence of these inequalities, highlighting the need for equitable distribution of profits.