In a series of Christmas posts on his Truth Social platform, President-elect Donald Trump repeated contentious claims about foreign territories and strategic infrastructure, including the Panama Canal, Canada, and Greenland.
Trump took aim at China, accusing it of exerting unauthorized influence over the Panama Canal, a key global trade route. “Merry Christmas to all, including the wonderful Chinese soldiers who, lovingly but illegally, operate the Panama Canal,” he wrote.
The remarks follow comments Trump made on Saturday, suggesting that American ships should pay reduced fees to transit the canal, which links the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. He further implied that the United States should consider regaining control over the waterway, which was transferred to Panama in 1999 under a treaty signed decades earlier.
Canada Targeted as Potential ’51st State’
Trump also turned his attention northward, reviving provocative comments about Canada’s relationship with the United States. Referring to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as a “governor,” Trump suggested that incorporating Canada as a 51st U.S. state would yield economic and security benefits.
“If Canada became our 51st state, taxes would drop by over 60%, businesses would immediately double in size, and they would enjoy military protection like no other country in the world,” he claimed.
Greenland’s Strategic Importance Highlighted
Trump’s holiday messages also revisited his earlier interest in acquiring Greenland, a vast Arctic territory governed by Denmark. Trump asserted that the United States has strategic needs in Greenland and suggested local residents supported greater American presence.
“The people of Greenland, who the United States needs for national security, want us there—and we will be there!” he declared.
The comments prompted a swift response from Greenland’s Prime Minister Mute Egede, who reaffirmed on Monday that the territory is not for sale, echoing earlier denials following Trump’s 2019 overtures to purchase the region.
Looking Ahead to Inauguration
Trump is set to be sworn in as the 47th President of the United States on January 20 in Washington, D.C., marking a return to the White House after a contentious election and an extended period of public and legal battles.
While his remarks stirred both domestic and international debate, Trump’s renewed focus on foreign policy signals the potential for significant shifts as his administration prepares to take office.
