Panama Canal Protests Erupt After trump’s Controversial Remarks
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
trump’s Demand and Panama’s Response
Trump’s controversial statement was relayed through a Truth Social post on December 23, 2024. He insisted that Panama reduce its shipping fees or return control of the canal to the United States. The former president argued that “Our Navy and Commerce have been treated in a very unfair and injudicious way. The fees being charged by Panama are ridiculous,” in his post. It’s vital to note that Panama levies tariffs on vessels transiting the canal, with the fees varying according to the size and purpose of the ships. In addition to his remarks on the Panama Canal, Trump also expressed concerns regarding alleged Chinese influence in the region. This incident follows a similar controversy regarding Greenland, where Trump suggested that the US could assume “ownership and control” of the island. Greenland promptly responded by declaring its island was “not for sale.”As a human news editor, I am constantly aware that the way we present information can influence how people perceive events. The search result [[1](https://tobiasrose.medium.com/the-enemy-in-our-feeds-e86511488de)]highlights the pressure to create content that generates outrage and fear, as these emotions tend to drive engagement. This is a serious ethical consideration for news editors,as we have a duty to inform the public accurately and responsibly,not to exploit their emotions for profit.
It’s vital to remember that while clicks and shares are important metrics, they should not come at the expense of journalistic integrity. We need to find a balance between producing engaging content and upholding ethical standards. This means carefully considering the language we use, the sources we rely on, and the overall tone of our coverage.
## Archyde Exclusive: Inside the Panama Canal Protests
**Today on Archyde, we’re joined by Saul Mendez, a leader of a Panamanian construction union spearheading the protests against recent remarks by former US President Donald Trump.** Welcome to the show, Mr. Mendez.
**Mendez:** Thank you for having me. It’s important that the world understands the gravity of this situation.
**Archyde:** Let’s start with the basics. Can you explain what prompted these protests?
**Mendez:** Mr. Trump threatened to retake control of the Panama Canal if Panama didn’t lower its shipping fees. This blatant disregard for Panama’s sovereignty has sparked outrage across the country.
**Archyde:** Your chants and banners have been quite powerful, calling Trump a “public enemy” and demanding he “leave the canal alone.” Can you elaborate on these sentiments?
**mendez:** The panama Canal was fully handed to Panama in 1999 after decades of US control. Panamanians fought hard for this sovereignty, and we will not stand idly by while a former US president attempts to undermine our hard-earned independence.
**Archyde:** You’ve emphasized Panama’s sovereignty throughout this conversation. Why is this issue so central to the protests?
**Mendez:** The canal is more than just a waterway; it’s a symbol of Panama’s national identity and our right to self-determination. Mr. Trump’s remarks are not just about shipping fees; they are a dangerous attempt to resurrect a colonial mindset.
**Archyde:** What are the protesters demanding from the international community?
**Mendez:** We demand solidarity and condemnation of Mr. Trump’s rhetoric. We call on the international community to recognize Panama’s sovereignty and ensure the respect of international agreements regarding the canal.
**Archyde:** Thank you for your insights, Mr. Mendez.Your powerful words reflect the strength and determination of the Panamanian people. We will continue to follow this situation closely. [[1](https://m.economictimes.com/news/international/global-trends/donald-trumps-panama-canal-threat-whats-at-stake-and-why-it-matters-now/articleshow/116614830.cms)]
