US, Panama ‘taking back’ canal from ‘China’s influence,’ says Hegseth

US, Panama ‘taking back’ canal from ‘China’s influence,’ says Hegseth

'I want to be very clear. China did not build this canal. China does not operate this canal, and China will not weaponize this canal,' Hegseth said

US, Panama ‘taking back’ canal from ‘China’s influence’ says Hegseth

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth says the US and Panama have made moves to strengthen ties and remove ‘China's influence’ from canal.

Panama Security Minister Frank Abrego hosts Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth at the Presidential Palace in Panama City, Panama on April 8, 2025. (Daniel A. Gonzalez/Anadolu via Getty Images)

A demonstrator shouts slogans next to riot police during a protest against the visit of Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth in Panama City, on April 8, 2025. (Martin Bernetti/AFP via Getty Images)

Two cargo ships sail on Gatun Lake near the Agua Clara Locks of the Panama Canal in Colon City, Panama, on Dec. 28, 2024. (Arnulfo Franco/AFP via Getty Images)