Part 2/5:
The Panama Canal Controversy
Trump didn’t stop at Greenland; he also took aim at the Panama Canal, calling the fees charged by Panama for its use a “complete ripoff.” He described this rate structure as unjust, remarking that if the principles behind international agreements are not honored, the U.S. would demand the return of the Canal. His remarks about reclaiming the Canal drew immediate rebuke from Panamanian President José Rul Molino, who firmly asserted that "every square meter" of the Canal would remain with Panama, emphasizing that the rates are established through a transparent and public process.