The secretary of state said the United States could take steps to “protect its rights.” Panama’s leader said he was sure that President Trump wouldn’t seize the canal.

Marco Rubio, U.S. Secretary of State, visited Panama to urge reduced Chinese influence over the Panama Canal, reflecting tension under President Trump's foreign policy stance. Rubio met Panamanian leader Jose Raul Mulino to discuss treaty concerns and China's Belt and Road Initiative's impacts on canal operations.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio gestures after being welcomed by Panama's Foreign Minister Javier Martinez-Acha upon his arrival at the presidential palace in Panama City, Panama February 2, 2025.