By Sama Marwan,
In a move that signals a major shift in U.S. strategic priorities, President Donald Trump’s administration has formally requested the Department of Defense (Pentagon) to prepare “reliable military options” to ensure unrestricted U.S. access to the Panama Canal.
This directive was outlined in an official memorandum sent to Pentagon leaders, according to CNN.
Escalating U.S. Stance on the Panama Canal
During his recent Congressional address, Trump repeatedly stressed the need for the United States to “reclaim” the Panama Canal. However, the official request for military options marks a clear escalation in this matter.
According to the memorandum, titled “Interim Strategic Defense Guidance,” Pentagon officials have been instructed to immediately:
- Provide reliable military options to ensure fair and unrestricted access for U.S. forces and trade through the Panama Canal.
- Strengthen U.S. military presence in the Western Hemisphere.
- Continue using military assets to protect U.S. borders, counter illegal immigration, and combat human and drug trafficking.
A Strategic Shift in Pentagon Priorities
This memorandum highlights a clear shift in U.S. military focus compared to the 2022 National Defense Strategy. Instead of the traditional emphasis on challenges in the Middle East and Europe, Trump is prioritizing U.S. borders and American influence in Latin America, while maintaining China as a key focus.
The memorandum also reaffirms that the Pentagon’s top priority is defending the U.S. homeland, including securing borders and deporting illegal migrants in coordination with the Department of Homeland Security.
Strong Reaction from Panama
This development has sparked a strong response from the Panamanian government. President José Raúl Mulino strongly criticized Trump’s remarks about reclaiming the Panama Canal.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Mulino firmly denied any discussions on the matter with the U.S., stating:
“Once again, President Trump is lying. The Panama Canal is not being reclaimed, nor has this issue been discussed in any of our meetings with Secretary Rubio or any other U.S. official. On behalf of Panama and all Panamanians, I reject this latest insult to truth and to our nation’s dignity.“
