U.S. President-elect Donald Trump announced the nomination of Miami-Dade County Commissioner Kevin Marino Cabrera as ambassador to Panama on Wednesday. Describing Cabrera as a “America First principles champion,” Trump praised his expertise in Latin American politics and his role in fostering economic growth and international partnerships. “Kevin will do a FANTASTIC job representing our Nation’s interests in Panama,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
The nomination follows Trump’s controversial remarks about the Panama Canal, suggesting the U.S. should reassert control over the waterway it managed until 1999. Trump accused Panama of profiting unfairly from the canal and alleged that Chinese soldiers are operating it illegally. He criticized the U.S. for funding billions in repairs without influence over its administration.
Panama’s President, Jose Raul Mulino, refuted Trump’s claims, stating that China has no control over the canal’s operations. While a subsidiary of Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison Holdings manages ports at both entrances, the canal remains under Panama’s authority. The canal has been a focal point of U.S.-Panama relations since diplomatic ties were established in 1903.
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