As the world watches, Donald Trump’s ambitions for global infrastructure control have sparked intense debate and speculation surrounding his potential takeover of the Panama Canal. But what are the facts behind these claims, and is there any truth to the rumors that he plans to rename the Gulf of Mexico?
The Panama Canal Dispute: Separating Fact from Fiction
The possibility of Donald Trump taking control of the Panama Canal and renaming the Gulf of Mexico has sparked intense debate and speculation. However, it’s essential to examine the facts behind these claims.
Who Owns the Panama Canal?
The Panama Canal is owned by the Panama Canal Authority (PCA), an autonomous agency of the Government of Panama. The PCA was established in 1994, when the United States transferred ownership of the canal to Panama through the Torrijos-Carter Treaties. These treaties were signed in 1977 and went into effect on December 31, 1999.
Renaming the Gulf of Mexico

There is no credible evidence to suggest that Donald Trump or any other individual has the authority to rename the Gulf of Mexico. The Gulf of Mexico is a body of water located off the southern coast of the United States, stretching from the states of Texas and Louisiana to the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. Its name is derived from the Spanish explorer Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca, who first entered the region in 1527.
Trump’s Business Interests
While Donald Trump has expressed interest in investing in various infrastructure projects around the world, including the Panama Canal, there is no concrete evidence to suggest that he plans to take control of the canal. The PCA has consistently stated that it operates independently and makes decisions based on its own authority.
Conclusion
The claims surrounding Donald Trump’s potential takeover of the Panama Canal and renaming of the Gulf of Mexico are largely unfounded. The facts demonstrate that the Panama Canal is owned by the Government of Panama, and there is no credible evidence to support these baseless assertions.