In the wake of his controversial victory in the 2024 election, Donald Trump has taken his rhetoric to new, alarming heights, not just domestically but internationally. Known for his brash commentary and inflammatory remarks, Trump has recently directed his vitriol toward foreign countries, including Canada, Greenland, and now Panama. His latest statements, which involved threats to retake control of the Panama Canal, have drawn swift backlash, especially from Panama’s leadership, with President José Raúl Mulino firmly rejecting the notion.
While many have focused on Trump’s divisive rhetoric, political observers like Ana Navarro-Cárdenas have speculated on the deeper, personal motivations behind these threats. According to Navarro-Cárdenas, Trump’s attacks on Panama could be driven by a desire to deflect attention from his ongoing legal and financial troubles, particularly those involving tax evasion. Trump and his companies are currently embroiled in a lawsuit related to allegations of intentionally avoiding taxes on a 70-story high-rise in Panama that was previously managed by Trump’s businesses. The lawsuit claims that Trump failed to pay taxes on management fees, instead pocketing the money. This situation is just the latest in a series of legal and business entanglements that have dogged Trump for years.
Navarro-Cárdenas suggests that Trump’s aggressive foreign rhetoric, including the Panama Canal threats, may serve as a diversion from these mounting legal challenges. Trump’s business dealings, especially those involving foreign entities, have been marred by legal questions and conflicts of interest, which he has consistently tried to downplay throughout his political career.
Despite the ongoing criticism and legal issues, it’s unlikely that Trump’s behavior will change. His tendency to use threats and intimidation, both at home and abroad, seems to be part of his political strategy. Whether or not these tactics continue to work for him, they reflect a broader pattern of attempting to use his position for personal gain and to silence criticism through forceful rhetoric.