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US Defense Chief Visits Panama, Vows to Push Out Chinese Influence from Canal
In a bold statement during a rare visit to Panama, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth pledged to end China's growing influence in the Panama Canal, a critical global trade route.
The visit marks the first time in decades that a top Pentagon official has traveled to the Central American nation. Hegseth held private talks with Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino and later toured the canal to observe operations firsthand.
Following the meetings, Hegseth said the United States and Panama would work together to ensure the canal remains secure and free from foreign manipulation.
“Together, we will take back the Panama Canal from China’s influence,” Hegseth said in Panama City.
Strengthening Military Ties and Strategic Control
The U.S. is aiming to build stronger military and security partnerships with Panama, particularly amid concerns that China could use its commercial ties in the region for surveillance and strategic leverage.
“China did not build the canal, does not operate the canal, and will not weaponize the canal,” Hegseth declared. He emphasized that the U.S. would support Panama's leadership in maintaining control of the canal and keeping it open to all nations without bias or threat.
Shift in Panama's Foreign Policy
President Mulino recently announced Panama’s decision to withdraw from China’s Belt and Road Initiative — a move welcomed by Washington. His administration has also cooperated with the U.S. on immigration control and deportation flights.
The shift away from China aligns with President Donald Trump’s tougher stance on Beijing. Reports suggest that the Trump administration has been exploring military options to protect U.S. access to the canal in any future conflict.
Strategic Moves in the Region
In a major business deal last month, U.S. asset management firm BlackRock led the acquisition of much of Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison’s $22.8 billion ports portfolio — including ports near both ends of the Panama Canal. Trump praised the deal as part of the U.S.'s effort to "reclaim the Panama Canal."
China criticized the deal and announced an antitrust review.
Military Importance of the Canal
Strategic experts say the Panama Canal is crucial in the event of a conflict in Asia, as it enables rapid movement of U.S. naval forces between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. A strong Chinese presence near the canal could threaten that mobility or allow for intelligence gathering, even if direct control is not possible.
