Germany Condemns Trump’s Remarks On Seizing Panama Canal
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock on January 21 strongly condemned former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent pledge to take control of the Panama Canal, a comment he reiterated during his inaugural address.
Baerbock described Trump’s remarks as “unacceptable,” particularly his expressed desire to control Greenland, an autonomous territory of NATO ally Denmark. She emphasized that any threats directed at NATO members or other nations were completely unacceptable.
Speaking to German broadcaster RBB, Baerbock stated, “Any threat against a NATO member or other states is of course completely unacceptable.” However, she also suggested that Germany’s response should be strategic, focusing not just on the rhetoric but also on understanding the motives behind Trump’s statements. “It’s not about how President Trump says something, but we should look at why he says something,” she added. “The focus should be on what interests are behind these statements and then standing up for our own interests.”
Baerbock indicated that Trump’s comments on the Panama Canal may stem from concerns over China’s growing influence, particularly its investments in global infrastructure projects, including ports. During his inauguration, Trump claimed that China was “operating” the Panama Canal, a vital international trade route that was transferred to Panamanian control in 1999. He asserted, “We didn’t give it to China, we gave it to Panama. And we’re taking it back.”
This was not the first time Trump suggested reclaiming U.S. control of the canal, with previous remarks hinting at the possibility of using military force to achieve his objective.
While acknowledging that Germany had no illusions about Trump’s second term, Baerbock reiterated that the U.S. remains one of Germany’s most important allies. She stressed the importance of continuing to work closely with the U.S. while also strengthening Germany’s strategic position independently.
