Trump threatens to demand ownership of the Panama Canal ‘in full’ if the ‘rip-off’ of the US does not stop

President-elect Trump called out the nation of Panama for the “exorbitant” fees it charges the US – and threatened to demand control of the key trade hub.

The once-and-future president fired off two Truth Social posts highlighting the US’s construction, sale and current relationship with the infamous Panama Canal — which he framed as a matter of national and economic security.

“If the principles, both moral and legal, of this generous gesture of giving are not followed, then we will demand that the Panama Canal be returned to us, in full and without question

To the officials of Panama, please be guided accordingly,” wrote the president-elect on Truth Social on Saturday evening. “The Panama Canal is considered a VITAL national asset to the United States because of its critical role in America’s economy and national security.”

A secure Panama Canal is critical to U.S. trade and rapid deployment of the Navy, from the Atlantic to the Pacific, drastically reducing shipping times to U.S. ports,” he wrote in another post.

The billionaire detailed that shipping to and from the US makes up 70% of traffic through the link.

Trump also included the historical context of how the man-made wonder was built and shared his thoughts on the circumstances surrounding the transfer of its deed.

“The Panama Canal opened for business 110 years ago and was built at a HUGE cost to the United States in lives and treasure,” he wrote.

“When President Jimmy Carter foolishly gave it away, for one dollar, during his tenure, it was entirely up to Panama to govern, not China or anyone else,” Trump elaborated.

Trump further decried the “exorbitant prices and passage rates” charged by the US military and companies.

“This complete ‘tear-off’ of our country will immediately stop,” he wrote before introducing the ultimatum to the leaders of the nation of Panama. “We would and will NEVER let it fall into the wrong hands!”