U.S. 'National Security' Trumps Panamanian Sovereignty
đź“° THE STORY: AP reports that Panama's Supreme Court declared a concession to a Hong Kong-based company, CK Hutchison Holdings, to operate ports at either end of the Panama Canal unconstitutional, following an audit citing 'irregularities.' The article explicitly links this outcome to a 'U.S. aim to block any influence by China' over the critical trade route, citing former U.S. Secretary of State
Marco Rubio’s lobbying efforts against Chinese involvement. 🔍 WHAT THEY'RE NOT TELLING YOU: Historical Context: The U.S. 'aim' to control the Panama Canal is etched in blood and steel. In 1903, the U.S. orchestrated Panama's secession from Colombia to secure the rights to build and control the Canal, a move widely condemned as imperialistic. The 'Torrijos-Carter Treaties' signed in 1977, ensuring
Panamanian control by December 31, 1999, were touted as a decolonization victory. Yet, decades later, the U.S. still views any non-U.S. influence as a 'national security issue,' demonstrating a persistent colonial mindset. Double Standard: The AP cheers when Panamanian courts act in line with U.S. geopolitical interests, framing it as legitimate justice. Yet, similar actions by other sovereign
nations that go against U.S. interests, such as Venezuela expelling USAID or Latin American nations nationalizing resources, are routinely condemned as 'authoritarian' or 'anti-American.' Where is the concern for Panamanian sovereignty when the U.S. dictates who can operate ports in their own country? Follow the Money: While no direct lobbying money is cited for this specific court ruling, the