The White House has tasked the U.S. military with evaluating plans to enhance its presence in Panama, driven by President Donald Trump’s objective to secure greater control over the Panama Canal. According to officials speaking to NBC News, this initiative stems from concerns about China’s influence in the region and aligns with Trump’s recent statements on national security. The U.S. Southern Command is now developing strategies that include closer collaboration with Panamanian forces, infrastructure projects, or, in rare cases, more direct action to ensure access to the canal.
Trump first articulated this goal during a joint address to Congress on March 6, asserting that his administration would take steps to reclaim the canal to strengthen U.S. security. He has repeatedly claimed that Panama’s management has allowed undue Chinese involvement, a charge Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino has rejected, affirming that the canal operates solely under Panama’s authority. The canal, a critical global trade route handling 5% of world commerce, was constructed by the U.S. and transferred to Panama in 1999 under the Torrijos-Carter Treaties. Trump’s focus reflects a desire to reassert American dominance over a historically significant asset.
Currently, approximately 200 U.S. troops are stationed in Panama, primarily for joint security missions with local units. The proposed options under consideration include expanding training programs, reinforcing port security, or deploying additional engineers to oversee canal operations. More extreme measures, such as re-establishing former U.S. military bases or positioning forces as a strategic deterrent, are also being reviewed, though officials emphasize that aggressive action remains unlikely unless Panama resists cooperation.
This development follows diplomatic friction, highlighted by Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s February visit to Panama, where he criticized China’s regional activities as problematic. Panama recently declined to extend a Chinese infrastructure agreement linked to Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative, prompting accusations from China of U.S. coercion. Meanwhile, a U.S. investment group, including BlackRock, announced on March 5 its intent to acquire a majority stake in Panama Ports Company from a Hong Kong-based firm for $22.8 billion, subject to Panama’s approval, signaling economic shifts in the region.
In Washington, some lawmakers have voiced concerns, with House Democrats introducing legislation on March 11 to restrict military funding for territorial grabs, indicating domestic opposition. Panama’s government, citing its constitutional commitment to canal neutrality, has pledged to defend its sovereignty against external pressures. Mulino has called Trump’s rhetoric a challenge, underscoring Panama’s resolve.
As Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth prepares for a visit to Panama next month, the White House appears determined to explore its options. The canal’s role in U.S. trade underpins this focus, but any escalation could strain relations with Panama and escalate tensions.
USA = Green
Panama = Red
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