U.S. Defense Secretary Vows to “Take Back” Panama Canal

U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said Washington would “take back” the Panama Canal from “China’s influence” during a visit to Panama, saying the Trump administration would not allow China to “weaponize” the passage. “Together, we will take back the Panama Canal from China's influence,” Hegseth said.

“China did not build this canal. China does not operate this canal and China will not weaponize this canal. Together with Panama in the lead, we will keep the canal secure and available…