MOSCOW, Dec 22 (Bernama-Sputnik/RIA Novosti) -- US President-elect Donald Trump has threatened to return the Panama Canal to US ownership unless Panamanian authorities regulate its "ridiculously" high fees, reported Sputnik/Ria Novosti.
In a Truth Social post, Trump said the Panama Canal is considered a vital national asset for the United States because of its critical role in the economy and national security. However, he called the high fees charged by Panama "ridiculous" and said this "rip-off" must stop.
"If the principles, both moral and legal, of this magnanimous gesture of giving are not followed, then we will demand that the Panama Canal be returned to us, in full, and without question," Trump added.
The Panama Canal is an artificial waterway in Panama, Central America, traversing the Isthmus of Panama at its lowest point and linking the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. It is regarded as one of the most significant international transport routes.
-- BERNAMA-SPUTNIK/RIA NOVOSTI
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