The protest highlights the sensitivity surrounding national sovereignty in Panama, particularly regarding historical issues related to the Panama Canal and US involvement in the region.
Trump's comments may reflect a broader trend of American political rhetoric that challenges the sovereignty of smaller nations, which can provoke strong reactions from local populations.
The ongoing tensions between the US and Panama could lead to further protests if Trump's administration continues to make statements perceived as threatening to Panamanian sovereignty.
The situation may prompt the Panamanian government to strengthen its diplomatic relations with other countries to counterbalance US influence.
Protests erupted outside the US embassy in Panama on December 25, 2024, in response to President-elect Donald Trump's recent statements regarding the Panama Canal. Approximately 100 demonstrators, organized by the construction union and various leftist groups, voiced their opposition to Trump's threats to regain control of the canal unless Panama reduced transit fees for US ships. Protesters burned images of Trump and US Ambassador to Panama, Marie Carmen Aponte, while chanting slogans that emphasized their national sovereignty and rejection of perceived American imperialism.
The Panama Canal, which has been under Panamanian control since December 31, 1999, following a treaty signed by former US President Jimmy Carter and Panamanian leader Omar Torrijos, remains a significant symbol of national pride for Panamanians. Construction union leader Saul Mendez stated, 'Panama is a sovereign state... Donald Trump and his imperialist delirium cannot claim a single centimeter of Panamanian land.'
In response to Trump's comments, Panamanian President José Raúl Molino affirmed the nation's sovereignty, declaring, 'Every square meter of the Panama Canal and the surrounding area belongs to Panama, and will remain so.' He emphasized that the canal is an integral part of the country's history and identity.
