Donald Trump, Photo: REX / Shutterstock
In recent days, Donald Trump, the newly elected president of the United States, has once again drawn attention to his statements on Greenland, Canada and the Panama Canal. His posts on Truth Social have sparked a wave of discussion, as they mix a humorous tone with serious geopolitical ambitions.
Criticism of the Panama Canal
Trump has expressed dissatisfaction with the high fees for using the Panama Canal, which he believes are detrimental to US interests. He recalled that the construction of the canal more than a century ago claimed the lives of many Americans, and said:
“We give billions of dollars for repairs, but we have absolutely no influence.”
Trump has hinted that the United States could regain control of the canal, which was transferred to Panama in 1999 under an agreement concluded in 1977.
Canada as the 51st state?
His proposal to annex Canada was no less controversial. In his publications, he referred to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as a “governor” and suggested that Canada’s accession to the United States would have a positive impact on the neighbour’s economy.
“Taxes would be cut by 60%, business would double, and US protection would be the best in the world.”
According to Fox News, Trump even discussed the idea during a private dinner with Trudeau at Mar-a-Lago.
Greenland is back in the spotlight
This is not the first time that the US has announced its intention to acquire Greenland. This time, Trump emphasised that this autonomous region of Denmark is of great strategic importance to the United States. He also announced his plans to nominate Ken Khoury as ambassador to Denmark, which only intensifies speculation.
The Prime Minister of Greenland, Mute Egede, reacted categorically, saying that “Greenland is not for sale”.
Trump’s statements traditionally combine provocativeness with a desire to attract attention. Experts believe that such comments may be aimed at mobilising his electorate. However, analysts warn that such words could exacerbate international relations.
Time will tell whether these are real plans or a political show. However, it is clear that Trump remains a master at creating newsworthy events.
