The U.S. nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz arrived in Panamanian waters on Sunday as part of the multinational exercise 'Southern Seas 2026', marking a presence alongside other continental naval forces. This deployment symbolizes a historical relationship based on trust and respect, as well as a joint commitment to peace, regional stability, and security on the continent. The Nimitz, which is scheduled for decommissioning in 2027, and the USS Gridley will remain in Panama until April 2. The carrier remains anchored in open waters, about 45 minutes from the Amador port, and will not cross the Canal during this mission. This deployment includes maneuvers with naval forces from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Uruguay as part of the 'Southern Seas 2026' operation, which has reached eleven editions since 2007. The Nimitz strike group is not alone. The visit is part of the cooperation between the United States and Panama to strengthen maritime security and combat transnational crime, according to authorities. 'We are in Panama as guests and also as security partners,' said Rear Admiral Norman Cassi, highlighting that the mission seeks to strengthen security and prosperity in the Americas. The high command was accompanied by the Minister of Public Security, Frank Ábrego, during an event at the Amador cruise terminal, where the USS Gridley destroyer, part of the strike group, also docked. Cassi was clear: without Panama, this mission cannot be completed. He highlighted the country's weight in global trade, remembering that the U.S. uses about 70% of the cargo that crosses the Canal, a key route for the world. He also stated that he hopes cooperation between the two countries will remain strong. In turn, Ábrego assured that the presence of the Nimitz is no small matter.
