On January 21, 2025, Russia’s foreign ministry issued a warning to the united states regarding the Panama Canal, asserting that it legally belongs to Panama. The statement came amid expected discussions between Panamanian leadership and U.S. President Donald Trump about control over the vital waterway.
- Russia asserts Panama's legal ownership of canal.
- U.S. warned against military or economic coercion.
- Discussions expected between Panama and Trump.
- Russia supports neutrality of the Panama Canal.
- Panamanian President rejects U.S. claims over canal.
- Canal critical for U.S. trade routes.
Alexander Shchetinin, director of the Latin American department of the Russian foreign ministry, emphasized that any attempts by the U.S. to reclaim the canal through military or economic means would be unacceptable. He reiterated Russia’s commitment to maintaining the neutrality of this crucial international transit route.
The Panama Canal serves as a critical link between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and plays a significant role in global trade, with approximately 40 percent of U.S. container ships passing through it annually. This strategic waterway has been under Panamanian control since its transfer from the United States in 1999.
Shchetinin stated that Russia expects both parties involved in future negotiations to respect international law governing this key maritime passage. He also highlighted that any interference by the U.S. in Panama’s internal affairs would not be tolerated.
- The Panama Canal connects two major oceans: Atlantic and Pacific.
- About 40% of all U.S. container traffic utilizes this route.
- The canal was transferred to Panama from U.S. control in December 1999.
This warning follows Trump’s earlier comments suggesting he might challenge Panama’s sovereignty over the canal, which prompted strong reactions from Panamanian officials, including President José Raúl Mulino who declared their dominion over it “non-negotiable.” Mulino firmly stated that every part of the canal remains under Panamanian authority.
The exchange highlights ongoing tensions between major powers regarding territorial claims and international waterways, emphasizing both Russia’s support for Panama’s rights and concerns over potential U.S. actions in Central America.
