Germany Rejects Trump’s Plan to Take Back Panama Canal

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has strongly condemned U.S. President Donald Trump’s renewed pledge to reclaim control of the Panama Canal, describing his remarks as “completely unacceptable.” In an interview with German broadcaster RBB on Tuesday, Baerbock took aim at Trump’s statements made during his inaugural address, where he reiterated his desire to take back control of the strategic waterway, which was handed over to Panama by the U.S. in 1999.

Trump’s Controversial Remarks

In his inaugural speech, Trump claimed that China had effectively “operated” the Panama Canal, which has long been a crucial international trade route. He stated, “We didn’t give it to China, we gave it to Panama. And we’re taking it back,” signaling his intent to reassert U.S. control over the canal. Trump did not rule out military action as part of his plans to regain control, a statement that has alarmed both international leaders and global markets.

Baerbock strongly rejected Trump’s rhetoric, emphasizing that any threats against NATO allies or other sovereign nations are “completely unacceptable.” While she did not dismiss the importance of the U.S. as a key partner for Germany, she made it clear that the nature of Trump’s remarks was cause for concern.

A Deeper Strategy Behind the Remarks

Baerbock suggested that Trump’s comments were likely part of a broader strategic concern regarding China’s growing global influence, particularly its significant investments in infrastructure, including ports, around the world. “The message was about China investing massively in ports and other important infrastructure around the world,” Baerbock noted, hinting that the U.S. president’s rhetoric on the Panama Canal was driven by the rising competition between the U.S. and China for influence in critical global trade routes.

While Germany has long been an ally of the United States, Baerbock’s response highlighted the need for a strategic response to Trump’s aggressive posturing. She urged a focus on the underlying interests behind Trump’s statements and stressed the importance of standing firm in defense of Germany’s national interests.

Germany’s Strategic Positioning

Baerbock acknowledged the complexities of Germany’s relationship with the U.S. as Trump begins his second term, noting that Washington remains a critical ally in various global matters. However, she also emphasized that Germany is increasingly strengthening its own strategic positioning within the international community.

“The USA is one of our most important allies. We want to and will continue to work closely together,” Baerbock said. “But we have positioned ourselves more intensively and even more strongly strategically.” This comment signals Germany’s commitment to maintaining its independence and influence, even while cooperating with the U.S.

Tensions on the Horizon

Baerbock’s strong criticism of Trump’s remarks on the Panama Canal highlights the growing geopolitical tensions in the wake of the U.S. president’s controversial policies. While Trump’s rhetoric on reclaiming the Panama Canal may have been framed as part of a broader anti-China strategy, it risks inflaming tensions with key U.S. allies like Germany, who are eager to preserve international norms and defend sovereignty.

As Trump moves forward with his second term, his approach to global alliances and strategic interests—particularly with respect to China and critical infrastructure—will be closely scrutinized by both allies and adversaries. Germany’s stance reflects a growing desire to safeguard its interests in an increasingly multipolar world, one in which traditional alliances may be tested in new ways.