Donald Trump’s Panama Canal threat: What’s at stake and why it matters now
Donald Trump threatened to reimpose U.S. control over it, sparking a wave of protests from Latin American leaders, particularly Panama.
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What Is the Panama Canal?
The Panama Canal is an 82-kilometer (51-mile) artificial waterway that connects the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, cutting through Panama. This strategic route saves ships thousands of miles and weeks of travel around the southern tip of South America, significantly reducing shipping times. For example, ships traveling from Los Angeles to New York save about 8,000 miles (roughly 22 days of travel) by using the canal instead of taking the longer route around the Strait of Magellan, located off the southern tip of South America.
The canal operates through a series of locks that transport ships across Gatun Lake, situated 26 meters (85 feet) above sea level. Every ship that transits requires approximately 200 million liters (53 million gallons) of fresh water. Its operation is critical not only for shipping but also as a major revenue generator for Panama.
A Storied History: From Colonization to U.S. Control
The concept of a canal cutting through the isthmus of Panama dates back to the 1530s, with Spanish colonizers initially considering the idea. However, it wasn't until the late 19th century that serious efforts began. In 1878, Colombia, which then
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