A top Russian official on Tuesday warned the Trump administration against attempting to take control of the Panama Canal after President Trump mentioned in his inaugural address that he intended to reclaim the strategic waterway.

The Panama Canal, built by the U.S. and controlled until its transfer to Panama during the Carter administration, is a critical global trade route. About 40% of U.S. container ships pass through it. Trump has repeatedly stated that the canal should return to U.S. control, citing concerns over alleged Chinese operations in the area.

Alexander Shchetinin, head of Russia’s Latin American department, urged the Trump administration to respect the canal’s international legal status, emphasizing that it legally belongs to Panama. He reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to the canal’s neutrality and safe operation under international law.

Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino has firmly rejected Trump’s remarks, declaring the canal as Panama’s sovereign territory. “The sovereignty and independence of our country is non-negotiable,” Mulino stated in December.

Meanwhile, Trump has also expressed interest in acquiring Greenland, asserting Denmark may eventually agree to sell the territory. These remarks have drawn widespread international criticism.

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