U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says American troops might return to Panama to secure the canal, raising alarms in both Panama and China. His comments spotlight growing concerns over Chinese influence in the region.
Key Facts:
- U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth visited Panama and suggested reopening a former U.S. military base.
- Hegseth said U.S. troops may be sent to “secure” the Panama Canal.
- The canal has been a focus of rising U.S. concern over Chinese involvement.
- Panama rejected the idea of hosting U.S. troops, citing sovereignty.
- China accused the U.S. of trying to disrupt its cooperation with Panama.
The Rest of the Story: How U.S. Leaders See Canal Security
During his visit to Panama, Secretary Hegseth proposed that the U.S. consider reactivating a military base closed since 1989.
The goal, according to him, would be to ensure free passage for U.S. naval vessels and to counter what he described as “severe overcharging” influenced by Chinese interests.
President Trump has echoed similar concerns, claiming the canal is now under Chinese sway.
Panama’s government quickly rejected any suggestion of U.S. troop presence, reaffirming its control over the canal and commitment to neutrality.
China, in turn, accused the U.S. of undermining international cooperation.
A spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry said, “Everyone knows who wants to control the Panama Canal,” casting the U.S. as the aggressor.
On a rare visit to Panama, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth secured new commitments from the Central American country but left some Panamanian officials wondering if they were enough to mollify Trump, who has vowed to “take back” the country’s canal. https://t.co/3ZXFeBC4ro
— Juan Forero (@WSJForero) April 9, 2025
Commentary: Why Securing the Canal Must Be a Priority
Secretary Hegseth’s proposal isn’t just symbolic—it reflects a long-overdue shift toward prioritizing U.S. strategic assets.
The Panama Canal is vital for global trade and military logistics, and the U.S. can no longer afford to ignore increasing Chinese leverage there.
Beijing has spent years building influence in Latin America, often through opaque business dealings and infrastructure investments that tilt power away from Western nations.
The canal is no exception.
Allowing China to set pricing or passage terms for U.S. ships undermines national security and military readiness.
For too long, American leaders have treated the canal as someone else’s responsibility.
That era should be over.
It’s time to restore a U.S. presence—not for domination, but to ensure stability, protect shipping lanes, and guarantee our navy can move freely in any global crisis.
The 1989 withdrawal was appropriate at the time, but the world has changed.
Now, a limited and cooperative U.S. role in Panama could safeguard peace and deter foreign interference.
This doesn’t mean occupying territory.
It means maintaining the capability to act swiftly and decisively should conflict arise.
In today’s strategic climate, readiness is everything—and the Panama Canal is too important to leave vulnerable.
The Bottom Line: Why It Matters for U.S. Power Projection
Hegseth’s remarks signal a major reassessment of America’s global posture, particularly in Latin America.
With the canal increasingly influenced by China, returning troops to Panama isn’t just a military move—it’s a message.
A secure, neutral canal benefits all nations, but only if that neutrality is protected.
Washington’s renewed interest may be the wake-up call Panama—and the world—needs.
Read Next
– Trump, Hegseth Strike Major Panama Canal Deal, Huge Blow to China
– Tulsi Gabbard Threatens CNN With Massive Lawsuit Over Voter Fraud Smear
– Mexican Cartel Drug Empire Dealt Crippling Blow With Massive U.S. Seizure
– How Jill Biden and Her Lust For Power May Have Saved America
– President Trump Appoints a New Leader For The ATF, Replacing Kash Patel