Rubio warns of U.S. action if Panama does not curb Chinese influence around the canal
NPR Online NewsJAN 29
Rubio, Mulino Meet Amid Rising US-Panama Tensions
Above: Panama's President Jose Raul Mulino (C) and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrive for a meeting at the presidential palace in Panama City on Feb. 2, 2025. Image copyright: Mark Schiefelbein/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
The PRC's influence over the Panama Canal poses a serious national security threat, as Beijing could potentially use its control of port facilities to disrupt this vital waterway during a conflict. The current arrangement violates the neutrality treaty and demands immediate intervention to protect American interests and rights.
Narrative B
Panama maintains full sovereignty over the canal through legally binding treaties, and the canal operates independently under Panamanian administration. The presence of international companies at ports, including those from Hong Kong, does not compromise Panama's control or violate any agreements, and attempts to reclaim the canal represent unacceptable imperial overreach.