Potential plans range from partnering more closely with Panamanian security forces to a less likely option of U.S. troops' seizing the canal by force, U.S. officials told NBC News.

cross-posted from: https://lemmy.world/post/26780048

Summary

The Trump administration has directed the U.S. military to develop plans for increasing its presence in Panama, aiming to “reclaim” the Panama Canal and counter China’s influence.

Options range from security partnerships to a highly unlikely military seizure of the canal.

Trump views a visible U.S. military presence as essential, while Panama denies any foreign interference.

The move follows Panama’s rejection of a key Chinese infrastructure deal. U.S. firms, including BlackRock, are investing in Panama’s ports as part of efforts to limit China’s role in the region.

    • Remember_the_tooth@lemmy.world
      1·
      4 hours ago

      Admittedly, yes, but for whatever it’s worth, a lot of countries are trying to downplay their historic involvement in Africa. I remember reading Conrad’s “Heart of Darkness.” What colonialists failed to achieve in Africa, they more than made up for in the Americas and in the worst ways possible.