Washington,D. C.- A group of Republican congressmen introduced the “Panama Canal Repurchase Act” in the U.S. House of Representatives, seeking to authorize the White House to negotiate the acquisition of the Panama Canal. The bill, led by Congressman Dusty Johnson and supported by 15 colleagues, gives the president 180 days from its enactment to report on the status of negotiations with Panama.
President-elect Donald Trump has strongly advocated for regaining control of the canal, citing concerns over its current operation by China. Trump has criticized the 1999 transfer of the canal to Panama under the Torrijos-Carter Treaties, calling it a mistake. At a recent press conference, he escalated his rhetoric, suggesting military action could be considered if negotiations fail, stating, “The Panama Canal is vital to our country.”
The Panamanian government has firmly rejected the proposal, describing the canal’s transfer as an “irreversible conquest.” The canal, built by the U.S. in the late 19th century, has been a source of historical tension between the two nations since its handover.