Panama Accuses US of ‘Hidden Invasion’ as Trump Sends Troops to Canal
Tensions are rising in Panama after U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that American troops have been sent there to “secure” the Panama Canal. Panamanian opposition leaders are furious, calling it a “camouflaged invasion.”
Back in January, during his second inauguration, Trump made headlines by promising to “take back” the Panama Canal a move that immediately raised fears of U.S. interference in the region. The canal has been fully under Panamanian control since 1999, when it was handed over by the U.S. as part of the Torrijos-Carter treaties, which also ban foreign military bases in Panama.
Despite these rules, Trump’s administration is pushing for a bigger U.S. military presence, saying it’s needed because of national security threats and growing Chinese influence nearby.
This week, opposition politicians in Panama called out what they see as a secret and illegal deal between their government and the U.S. The deal reportedly gives American forces access to three old military sites: Fort Sherman, Rodman Naval Base, and Howard Air Force Base. Officially, these sites are meant to be used for “humanitarian” and “training” purposes, but critics say they look a lot like active military bases.
Opposition leader Ricardo Lombana didn’t hold back, calling the situation “a camouflaged invasion an invasion without gunfire, but with pressure and threats.”
A Panamanian lawyer has already filed legal action against President José Raúl Mulino, accusing him of violating the country’s sovereignty. Meanwhile, the anti-corruption group Transparency International is demanding that the government release all details about its agreements with the U.S.
Protests are expected this weekend as angry citizens plan to hit the streets, accusing the government of selling out Panama’s independence. The government, for its part, insists the deal is temporary and won’t compromise the country’s sovereignty.
Trump’s Canal Move Sparks Outrage: Panama Calls It a ‘Camouflaged Invasion’
