US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is traveling to Panama next week for meetings with Central American leaders, following recent allegations of Chinese interference in the operations of the critical Panama Canal shipping lane. The trip comes after President Donald Trump complained about the US relinquishing control of the canal more than 20 years ago and threatened to retake it.
Trump has accused former President Jimmy Carter of “foolishly” giving the canal away, but Panama’s government denies any Chinese influence over the waterway. Hegseth will participate in the 2025 Central American Security Conference, aiming to strengthen partnerships with Panama and other nations towards a peaceful and secure Western Hemisphere.
The US has taken steps to secure its interest in the region, including a deal that gives BlackRock Inc., an investment management company, control over ports near the Panama Canal. This move effectively puts the ports under American control, with the transaction requiring approval from Panama’s government.
Hegseth will also visit Eglin Air Force Base to meet with service members and command leadership of the 7th Special Forces Group during his trip.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/hegseth-panama-canal-trump-china-pentagon-e990f217bd8fd4a48486c5db88622c29