The U.S. government has ordered the military to prepare plans for increasing its presence in Panama. This decision is part of a broader effort to secure control over the Panama Canal, one of the most important waterways in global trade. Officials say the move aims to reduce foreign influence and ensure uninterrupted access for American ships.
U.S. Military Presence in Panama Set to Expand
The Panama Canal is a 50-mile waterway that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, allowing ships to avoid the long and costly route around South America. Since its construction by the U.S. in the early 20th century, the canal has played a crucial role in international trade. Control of the canal was transferred to Panama in 1999, but the U.S. has continued to monitor its security and operations closely.
The U.S. Southern Command, responsible for military operations in Latin America, has been tasked with developing different strategies for increasing American influence over the canal. These strategies range from closer cooperation with Panama’s security forces to the less likely option of direct U.S. military intervention. The level of military involvement will depend on how much Panama agrees to partner with the United States.
Currently, there are around 200 U.S. troops stationed in Panama, including Special Forces units that train Panamanian forces to handle security threats. However, officials say this number could increase significantly as part of the new security strategy. While a full-scale U.S. military operation in Panama is considered unlikely, officials are keeping all options on the table to secure American interests in the region.
Growing Tensions Over Foreign Involvement in the Canal
Panama’s government insists that it controls the canal independently and denies that any foreign power has direct influence over its operations. However, U.S. officials have raised concerns about increasing economic and infrastructure projects connected to foreign investments. They argue that some of these projects could be used for both economic and military purposes, posing a security risk.
In response, the U.S. has been increasing diplomatic pressure on Panama to limit these investments. Recently, Panama chose not to renew a key infrastructure agreement with a major foreign investor, a move seen as influenced by Washington. The foreign investor, however, has accused the U.S. of using unfair pressure to interfere in economic projects and block international cooperation.
The canal is one of the busiest shipping routes in the world, with a large portion of global trade passing through its waters. The U.S. fears that if a rival power gains too much influence over the canal, it could restrict American access or even block U.S. military ships during a conflict. Such a scenario would force American and allied ships to take much longer routes around South America, increasing costs and delays for global trade.
In a recent speech, the U.S. president declared that reclaiming control of the canal is a national security priority. However, his administration has not clarified what “reclaiming” means. Some experts suggest it could involve securing safe passage for U.S. ships, while others believe it may mean restoring full American operation of the canal.
Strategic Plans for Canal Security
To strengthen its position in Panama, the U.S. is considering multiple security measures. These include:
- Expanding Military Training Programs: The U.S. may work more closely with Panamanian security forces, providing additional training and resources to strengthen local defense capabilities.
- Building New Port Facilities: One of the proposed strategies is to establish new ports that would give the U.S. greater control over trade routes in the region.
- Deploying More Troops: Increasing the U.S. military presence in Panama could help secure key infrastructure and prevent any foreign takeover of strategic assets.
- Blocking Foreign Access in Crisis Situations: In the event of a major security threat, the U.S. could take steps to restrict foreign access to the canal.
Some discussions have also focused on reopening specialized military training schools in Panama, similar to those that existed before the U.S. handed over control of the canal. These schools trained American forces in jungle warfare and could be used again for military readiness in the region.
In addition to military strategies, American companies are also making financial moves to secure control over canal operations. A major U.S. investment firm recently announced a deal to purchase a 90% stake in Panama’s key port operations. This $22.8 billion transaction transfers ownership from a Hong Kong-based company to American investors. Officials say this move aligns with Washington’s broader efforts to ensure control over trade routes and reduce foreign influence.
While military action remains a last resort, the U.S. is making it clear that it will not allow foreign powers to dominate the canal. Given the strategic importance of this waterway, any disruption to its operations could have severe consequences for global trade and security.
