U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has moved away from former President Trump’s aggressive rhetoric towards Panama regarding the canal, instead emphasizing collaboration and security partnerships with the country. This comes as Panama distances itself from China’s influence over the strategic waterway.
Hegseth Promotes Collaboration with Panama on Canal Security
On April 8, 2025, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth visited Panama, where he highlighted efforts to work together with the country to ensure the security and availability of the Panama Canal. In contrast to former President Donald Trump’s previous threats to take over the canal, Hegseth emphasized a more cooperative approach, underscoring the strength of the U.S. military in safeguarding the waterway.
“We will keep the canal secure and available for all nations through the deterrent power of the strongest, most effective and most lethal fighting force in the world,” Hegseth stated during a press conference.
Shift in U.S. Strategy on the Canal
Hegseth’s remarks reflect a shift in U.S. policy from Trump’s earlier stance, where he repeatedly threatened to bring the Panama Canal back under U.S. control. Under Trump, there were heightened concerns about Chinese influence over the canal, particularly regarding its role in the Belt and Road Initiative. In contrast, Hegseth focused on strengthening the U.S.-Panama military partnership to counter Chinese influence in the region.
Panama’s Shift Away from China
In recent months, Panama has distanced itself from China, marking significant changes in its foreign policy. In February 2025, Panama announced its decision to leave China’s Belt and Road Initiative, and in March, a Hong Kong company operating crucial ports along the canal sold its stakes to an investment group led by BlackRock, an American firm. These moves align with the Trump administration’s goals of reducing Chinese control over critical infrastructure in the region.
Trump’s Aggressive Rhetoric vs. Hegseth’s Diplomacy
While Trump previously made forceful statements about reclaiming control of the Panama Canal, claiming that China was operating and benefiting from it, Hegseth’s message reflected a more diplomatic tone. He framed China as the aggressor and assured Panama that the U.S. would work collaboratively with its allies to protect the canal.
“China did not build this canal. China does not operate this canal and China will not weaponize this canal,” Hegseth emphasized during his visit.
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