Staff Reports
President-elect Donald Trump is making it crystal clear that Panama has overstayed its welcome in cozying up to the Chinese Communist Party while simultaneously sticking it to the United States with exorbitant fees for the Panama Canal. It’s like trying to make a deal with a neighbor who borrows your lawnmower and never returns it—only this neighbor is a whole country and the lawnmower is a vital waterway that cost America countless lives to build.
On Christmas Day, Trump put his cards on the table regarding Latin America, and it was a present far less merry for those who enjoy doing business with China. He pointed out that while American taxpayers are footing the bill for everything from repairs to security, the Chinese continue to operate the canal illegally while conveniently ignoring American concerns. One can only assume he was elbow-deep in his holiday eggnog when he proclaimed, with a wink and a nod, that if Canada were to become the 51st state, they’d be rolling in tax savings and military protection—something akin to a “buy one, get one free” deal just for joining the Union.
In the same breath, Trump wasted no time in introducing his choice for the new U.S. Ambassador to Panama, Kevin Marino Cabrera. This pick signals a shift toward putting America First in dealings with Latin America. Cabrera is no stranger to the fight for economic growth and international partnerships, having built a reputation as a tough advocate for conservative interests. It’s about time Panama had someone in their corner who understands the art of the deal—one that doesn’t involve robust kickbacks and shady agreements.
Trump Pubishes New Details About Retaking the Panama Canal
https://t.co/n7H4E98Npy— Townhall.com (@townhallcom) December 26, 2024
In typical fashion, Trump praised Cabrera’s experience, touting how well he has served the MAGA Agenda and how he’ll be instrumental in setting things right. It’s a breath of fresh air, considering too many ambassadors in the past have resembled doormats for foreign interests instead of staunch defenders of American values. The hope is that Cabrera will not only advocate for American economic interests but also make sure Panama knows the U.S. is not a pushover.
Meanwhile, the President of Panama continues to cling to the notion that the Panama Canal is not for sale. That’s a lovely sentiment, but for Americans, it’s more about fairness than ownership. The Panama Canal is vital for trade and security, and as long as it’s in their hands while they cozy up to Beijing, it’s not going to sit well with the American public. The question remains: how long will Panama gamble on a relationship that could backfire spectacularly? With Trump at the helm and Cabrera representing U.S. interests, it’s clear the gloves are off, and the game’s just getting started.
