President Donald Trump has ordered the U.S. military to prepare options for reclaiming control of the Panama Canal, as concerns grow over China’s role in the region. The administration sees the move as essential to protecting U.S. national security and trade interests.
U.S. Southern Command has been tasked with crafting plans that range from working alongside Panama’s government to potentially using military force if cooperation fails. Officials say a U.S. takeover is not the first option, but it remains on the table should diplomatic efforts stall.
Adm. Alvin Holsey, who leads U.S. Southern Command, has already provided initial recommendations to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The administration believes deploying U.S. forces to the canal zone could serve as a deterrent against growing Chinese influence.
Trump has criticized the 1977 treaty that transferred control of the canal to Panama, saying the agreement has not been upheld. In a recent congressional address, he stated, “We didn’t give it to China. We gave it to Panama, and we’re taking it back.”
China’s expanding presence in the region has raised alarms among U.S. defense officials. Chinese state-owned companies have been increasing their investments in projects tied to the canal, prompting fears that Beijing could leverage control over one of the world’s most important trade routes. Some in Washington warn that if tensions rise, China could restrict American access to the waterway.
Trump has privately stressed that a stronger U.S. presence in Panama is critical for countering China’s influence. His administration is pushing forward with plans to station more American forces in the country, signaling a potential shift in U.S. military strategy.
Hegseth is set to review the proposed courses of action before heading to Panama for discussions with local officials. The situation remains fluid, but Trump’s call to reclaim the canal has already sparked international debate over the future of the vital shipping route.
