Trump's Threat of Military Action Revives Memories of 1989 Invasion and Sparks Outrage

A History of Conflict and Trump's Threatening Rhetoric

The Panama Canal, a vital waterway connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, has been a source of contention for decades. Now, with Donald Trump's recent comments suggesting the US could take control of the canal, tensions are rising once again.

For many Panamanians, Trump's words evoke painful memories of the 1989 US invasion, which ousted dictator Manuel Noriega but left hundreds dead, including many civilians. Isabel Corro, who lost her stepfather in the invasion, vividly recalls the night the city was bombarded, leaving buildings in ruins.

Trump's claims that China controls the canal are also disputed. While Chinese companies are involved in two major ports, they have no control over the canal itself. Fees charged for passage are calculated by weight and size, applying equally to all companies regardless of nationality.

Despite this, Trump has threatened to take military or economic action to acquire the canal, sparking outrage in Panama. The government has declared that sovereignty over the canal is non-negotiable and accused Trump of lying about making an offer to buy it.

The canal contributes significantly to Panama's economy and is a source of national pride. Any discussion of US intervention reopens old wounds and raises concerns about potential future conflict.

Trump's long-term strategy remains unclear, and his comments seem to contradict the positive relationship between the US and Panama. The president of Panama, José Raúl Mulino, is a conservative and fellow entrepreneur who has pledged to help the US with migration issues.

The Panama Canal is a vital asset for global trade and a symbol of Panamanian identity. Trump's threatening rhetoric risks destabilizing the region and jeopardizing a valuable partnership.