Pete Hegseth Says Panama Accepted Agreement on Warship Canal Passage After China Accused the U.S. of ‘Blackmail’
U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said that the nation of Panama agreed to allow warship passage through the canal after Chinese officials accused the U.S. of trying to use blackmail to further its interests.
Hegseth said that the two nations had signed a memorandum of understanding to allow U.S. warships to pass through the canal without paying a toll. The agreement for security cooperation also includes auxiliary vessels.
When asked about the accusation, Hegseth fired back at China.
“I don’t know anything about blackmail,” he responded, “but I do know about strength, peace through strength, and deterrence.”
On Wednesday a Chinese official had more fiery rhetoric against the U.S. as a trade war escalated between President Donald Trump and the communist-governed nation.
“Everyone knows who wants to control the Panama Canal,” said ministry spokesperson Lin Jian to reporters. “The U.S. side should take a look in the mirror to see who really threatens the sovereignty, security, and development of other countries.” (Read more from “Pete Hegseth Says Panama Accepted Agreement on Warship Canal Passage After China Accused the U.S. of ‘Blackmail’” HERE)
