'Camouflaged invasion': Panama opposition slams security pact with the US

[Judi Lynn]

Panama’s opposition speaks out against deal that allows the deployment of US troops in the Central American nation.



US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth meets with Panama's President Jose Raul Mulino and Minister of Public Security Frank Abrego, in Panama City, Panama, April 9, 2025 [Aris Martinez/Reuters]

Published On 12 Apr 2025
12 Apr 2025

Opposition politicians in Panama have accused the United States of launching a “camouflaged invasion” of the country after President Donald Trump confirmed the deployment of US soldiers days after the two countries signed a security pact.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Thursday confirmed that deals, including a memorandum of understanding, were reached between the US and Panamanian authorities in efforts to secure “the Panama Canal from Chinese influence”.

“The Panama Canal is key terrain that must be secured by Panama, with America, and not China,” Hegseth said in a statement on Wednesday during his three-day trip to Panama.

Hegseth said a deal with the Panama Canal Authority would allow US warships and auxiliary ships “first and free” passage through the canal that connects the Pacific Ocean with the Atlantic and is a chief conduit for global trade.

He added that US troops would be deployed at three former military bases – Fort Sherman, Rodman Naval Base and Howard Air Force Base – as part of a deal signed with Panama’s Ministry of Public Security, raising concerns in Panama. The last US troops were pulled out from the country in 1999.

More:
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/4/12/camouflaged-invasion-panama-opposition-slams-security-pact-with-the-us