Senator Ted Cruz has voiced serious concerns regarding China's increasing influence over the Panama Canal, highlighting potential risks to U.S. national security. During a Senate Committee hearing, Cruz pointed to China's construction of a bridge across the canal, control of container ports at both ends, and the potential for leveraging these assets to disrupt canal traffic. He also raised concerns about high transit fees disproportionately affecting American cargo and Navy vessels.
Cruz's warnings echo recent remarks by President Trump regarding China's involvement with the canal. While Panama denies any undue Chinese influence, Federal Maritime Commission Chairman Louis Sola testified about the escalating presence of Chinese companies in Panama since 2015, including involvement in projects near the canal. Sola emphasized the concern stemming from many of these companies being state-owned and potentially linked to the People's Liberation Army. Cruz further criticized Panama's flagging of vessels in the Iranian ghost fleet, which he alleges generates substantial oil profits used to finance terrorism.
This situation unfolds as Secretary of State Marco Rubio embarks on his first international trip to Panama. The issue of Chinese influence in the region is likely to be a key topic of discussion. Cruz urged vigilance against Panama's potential exploitation of the canal and emphasized the need to address China's growing presence in the Western Hemisphere.
