Hegseth heads to Panama to discuss canal control with local leaders

In Panama, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is visiting to engage with local leaders and American troops stationed in the region. His two-day visit, which begins on April 7, 2025, coincides with ongoing discussions about the United States' relationship with Panama, especially concerning the Panama Canal. U.S. officials, including President Donald Trump, have raised concerns regarding the influence of China over the canal area and the implications it has for national security. During his trip, Hegseth is set to attend the 2025 Central American Security Conference, which aims to strengthen partnerships between the U.S. and Panama and other Central American nations. The conference will focus on regional defense, cybersecurity, and joint military operations. It is also reported that American and Panamanian military personnel will engage in training exercises, underscoring the importance of military collaboration in ensuring regional stability. Hegseth’s meetings will include high-level discussions with civilian and military leadership in Panama, furthering strategic alliances. These dialogues are critical, particularly in light of comments made by President Trump regarding the canal, which he views not only as a strategic asset but also as a symbol of U.S. engineering prowess. Historically, the Panama Canal was constructed by the U.S. and handed over to Panama in the 1970s, but recent tensions have raised questions about who holds power over this crucial transportation route. This visit, amidst heightened geopolitical tensions with China, aligns with U.S. objectives to reassert its presence and influence within Central America. The Trump administration has previously suggested legislation that would allow negotiations for the acquisition of the canal, reinstating it under American control. As such, Hegseth's visit marks a significant moment for U.S.-Panama relations and highlights ongoing debates regarding the canal’s future.