U.S. President-elect Donald Trump announced the nomination of Miami-Dade County Commissioner Kevin Marino Cabrera as the next ambassador to Panama. Trump praised Cabrera as a staunch advocate for “America First” policies, noting his significant contributions to economic growth and international relations. “Few understand Latin American politics as well as Kevin – he will do a FANTASTIC job representing our Nation’s interests in Panama!” Trump stated on Truth Social.
This nomination follows Trump’s recent comments threatening to reassert U.S. control over the Panama Canal, which was managed by the U.S. until its transfer to Panama in 1999. Trump claimed Panama has been exploiting the canal to America’s detriment and said, “They are ripping us off on the Panama Canal, far beyond their wildest dreams.”
Trump also accused Chinese forces of operating the canal illegally and criticized the U.S. financial involvement in canal repairs without influence. He stated, “The United States puts in Billions of Dollars in ‘repair’ money but will have absolutely nothing to say about ‘anything.’” However, Panama’s President Jose Raul Mulino has denied Chinese involvement in the canal’s administration, which remains independent. A Hong Kong-based company, CK Hutchison Holdings, manages ports at the canal’s entrances.
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