Pentagon Announces Plan to Displace China from the Panama Canal.

The United States Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, announced an increase in the U.S. military presence in the Panama Canal region to counter China's influence. He also emphasized the importance of Panama as a strategic partner in this regard. Hegseth highlighted that U.S. military ships have already begun active operations in the area and praised the Panamanian president's decision to exit the 'One Belt, One Road' initiative. He stressed that the U.S. together with Panama will keep the canal secure and accessible for all countries.

The President of Panama previously announced the country's exit from the 'One Belt, One Road' initiative following negotiations with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.