Part 3/7:
Venezuela and Colombia: The rationale for tariffs against these nations revolves around urgent diplomatic issues, such as illegal immigration and criminal activity. Trump’s approach aimed to compel these countries to take responsibility for their actions, such as denying the repatriation of violent felons. In this context, tariffs served as a coercive measure, effectively encouraging compliance with U.S. demands.
Panama: Here, Trump invoked historical grievances over treaties, suggesting that Panama had violated conditions tied to the U.S. construction of the Panama Canal. The tariffs were intended as a rebuke to what Hansen perceived as unfair advantages taken by Panama.