Title: Panamanians Bristle at Trump’s Canal Comment: “It’s Like Being Big and Taking Candy from a Little Kid”
A recent remark made by United States President Donald Trump has sparked outrage among Panamanians, who are vehemently defending their country’s sovereignty over the Panama Canal. In a conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron, Trump referred to the canal as a “bigly” deal that the United States would have been “taking candy from a little kid” if they had negotiated a better agreement with Panama.
The comment was widely seen as condescending and insensitive, particularly given the rich history and strategic importance of the canal. Built by the United States between 1881 and 1914, the Panama Canal is one of the world’s most vital shipping lanes, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and generating significant revenue for Panama.
Many Panamanians took to social media to express their outrage and indignation at Trump’s words, with some even calling for him to be stripped of the honor of being awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by Panama in 2018.
“This comment is an affront to the dignity and sovereignty of Panama,” tweeted @JuanitoPanas, a prominent Panamanian Twitter user. “We are not ‘little kids’ and the canal is not ‘candy’ that can be taken away from us. We deserve respect and fairness in our relations with the US.”
Others emphasized the importance of the canal to Panama’s economy and national pride, with many expressing concern that Trump’s words may be an attempt to undermine Panama’s ability to manage and control its own assets.
“The Panama Canal is not just a economic asset, it’s a symbol of our nation’s strength and resilience,” wrote @MireyaL, a Panamanian writer and activist. “We will not let anyone diminish our accomplishments or disrespect our people. Mr. Trump should focus on making his own country great, instead of trying to belittle ours.”
The Panama Canal Authority, the government agency responsible for the operation and maintenance of the canal, also weighed in on the controversy, issuing a statement condemning Trump’s remarks and reaffirming Panama’s commitment to the canal’s continued operation and development.
“We are proud of the Panama Canal’s rich history and its significance as a vital shipping route,” said the authority’s spokesperson. “We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure the canal remains a key part of Panama’s economy and a symbol of our nation’s strength and sovereignty.”
As tensions between the United States and Panama continue to escalate, it remains to be seen whether Trump will issue a formal apology for his remarks or continue to downplay the controversy. However, one thing is clear: the people of Panama will not soon forget the affront to their national dignity and will continue to demand respect and fairness in their relations with the US.
