Trump has repeatedly threatened to take ownership of the critical maritime trade route — which the U.S. signed over to Panama in 1977 — calling it “vital” to American interests and refusing to rule out using military force in pursuit of his goal.

His inauguration speech focused on emergencies in immigration and energy and a more expansionist foreign policy, including a pledge to take back the Panama Canal

Trump’s “America First” rhetoric could significantly impact the region, potentially creating an opening for Europeans to strengthen their ties and influence there