President-elect Donald Trump, during a press conference at Mar-a-Lago on January 7, 2025, expressed interest in potentially using U.S. military force to take control of the Panama Canal and Greenland, citing economic security as a priority. When asked to rule out military or economic coercion for these territories, he refused, stating that the Panama Canal was built for military purposes and noting the influence of China in the region. Trump also proposed renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America,” emphasizing its significance.
Since his election victory, Trump has often discussed territorial expansion, blaming former President Jimmy Carter for the Panama Canal treaty. He mentioned the idea of turning Canada into a 51st U.S. state, considering only economic pressure rather than military action. His remarks have drawn criticism and ridicule, with Canadian leaders dismissing the notion. Trump Jr. visited Greenland as part of promotional efforts, linking Trump’s aspirations for the territory. The discussions have been met with skepticism, especially from leaders in Canada and Greenland, effectively rejecting any notion of annexation or sale.
