Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino became embroiled in controversy after stating that his meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio was "respectful" and "positive." Local social leaders like Saúl Méndez from the construction workers' union, however, disputed Mulino's claims, alleging that Rubio had issued an ultimatum for Panama to relinquish control of the Canal.
According to Méndez, the United States aims to prevent China from gaining greater influence over the Panama Canal. In contrast, Mulino reportedly offered the U.S. a landing strip for the repatriation of migrants, raising concerns about a potential U.S. military base in Panama.
Additionally, the decision by the Panamanian government to break economic agreements with China in favor of satisfying the United States is being questioned. The political analysis magazine, El Periódico de Panamá, criticizes Mulino's stance and emphasizes that the Panamanian state must protect its sovereignty over the Canal.
Rubio concluded his visit to Panama with a tour of the Miraflores locks, and he is expected to continue his tour in other countries in the region, including El Salvador, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic.
