A new US-Panama military agreement has sparked outrage among Panamanian opposition leaders.
The deal permits US troops to operate from three former American bases near the Panama Canal, officially for training and humanitarian missions. However, critics argue it effectively reintroduces foreign military presence, violating Panama’s neutrality. Opposition leader Ricardo Lombana condemned the move, stating, “This is a camouflaged invasion. An invasion without firing a shot, but with a cudgel and threats.”
The agreement, signed during US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s visit, grants US forces access to Fort Sherman, Rodman Naval Base, and Howard Air Force Base. While Panama’s government insists the deal doesn’t establish permanent bases, the lack of transparency has fueled public distrust.
The US justifies the deployment as a measure to protect the canal from Chinese influence. President Donald Trump has previously expressed intentions to “take back” the canal, intensifying concerns over sovereignty.
Panama has already withdrawn from China’s Belt and Road Initiative and is auditing Chinese-owned port facilities. Transparency International and other watchdogs are demanding full disclosure of the US agreements. President José Raúl Mulino faces mounting criticism for the secretive negotiations, with legal challenges looming.
The deployment marks the first US military presence in Panama since 1999, rekindling memories of the 1989 invasion. Public protests are expected to escalate as opposition to the agreement grows.
