The United States military has initiated a series of joint exercises with Panamanian police to bolster security for the Panama Canal amid rising concerns about Chinese influence in the region. The drills commenced with the arrival of three US Army helicopters—two UH-60 Black Hawks and a CH-47 Chinook—at the Panama-Pacific Airport, previously known as the US Howard base.
Michael Palacios, sub commissioner of Panama’s National Aeronaval Service (SENAN), emphasized that these exercises are designed to enhance the preparedness of Panamanian forces as well as those from neighboring countries against potential threats to the canal’s security and defense. This effort reflects ongoing bilateral cooperation between the US and Panama, following similar exercises held just a month prior under a pre-established agreement that allows US forces to utilize Panamanian air and naval facilities for training purposes.
The agreement has generated some backlash in Panama, where protests erupted in response to US military presence, particularly under the administration of former President Donald Trump. Trump has been vocal about his concerns regarding Chinese influence over the canal, which is a vital trade route that accounts for approximately 40 percent of US container traffic and five percent of global trade. In April, he expressed that the US should maintain unrestricted transit for both commercial and military vessels through the canal, asserting that the waterway would not have existed without American involvement.
While President Trump has voiced strong opinions on the issue, Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino clarified that the toll fees associated with the canal are governed by the Panama Canal Authority, an independent entity responsible for managing the route. This regulation underscores the complexities surrounding US-Panama relations, particularly as the historical context of US military bases in the country remains a sensitive topic for many Panamanians.
According to SENAN officials, the current US maneuvers are scheduled to continue until Friday, with a commitment to respect Panama’s national sovereignty throughout the exercises. Palacios noted that these joint exercises have been a regular occurrence for the past 23 years, highlighting the sustained partnership between the two nations in matters of security and defense.
