White House has asked US military to develop options for the Panama Canal, officials say

President Donald Trump’s White House has requested the U.S. Military to draw up plans for a military operation to retake the Panama Canal. Officials said the aim is to reduce China’s influence there, according to NBC News sources.

The military options include closer cooperation with the Panamanian military and the possibility of using force if necessary, as reported by NBC News.

Trump has emphasized expanding U.S. territory, which includes plans for the Panama Canal and has generated significant backlash, particularly from Canadians, as reported by NBC News.

U.S. Southern Command is considering various strategies to increase military presence in Panama, according to NBC News.