WASHINGTON: President-elect Donald Trump has reignited territorial ambitions reminiscent of 19th-century Manifest Destiny.
Proposals include acquiring Greenland, annexing Canada, and reclaiming control of the Panama Canal.
These ideas blend nationalist rhetoric with strategic bargaining, leaving unclear whether they reflect policy goals or provocations.
Trump’s interest in Greenland resurfaced Sunday, calling it crucial for “National Security and Freedom throughout the World.”
Tensions Over Greenland and Canada
Denmark firmly rejected Trump’s pitch to purchase Greenland, echoing similar denials from 2019.
Greenland‘s Prime Minister, Mute Egede, emphasized, “Greenland is not for sale and never will be.”
Canada, too, became the target of Trump’s musings about potential annexation.
While the idea seemed lighthearted, it follows tariff threats on Canadian goods, pushing leaders toward dialogue.
Conflict Over the Panama Canal
Trump criticized Panama’s control of the canal, describing it as a “vital national asset” for America.
He called for Panama to lower transit fees for U.S. ships or risk retaliatory actions.
Panama President José Raúl Mulino firmly declared the canal “not negotiable” in a public statement.
Mulino defended Panama’s management, highlighting significant economic benefits since gaining control in 1999.
Reactions and Strategic Context
Trump’s rhetoric has drawn attention to his larger “America First” agenda.
His remarks on drug cartels align with plans to use military force, potentially violating Mexican sovereignty.
Critics see these actions as provocative, blending nationalism with foreign intervention.
Supporters view Trump’s bold proposals as calculated negotiation tactics to strengthen U.S. influence globally.
