In a significant move that has drawn international attention, the U.S. State Department has revoked the travel visas of Martín Torrijos, the former president of Panama, and Ricardo Lombana, a presidential candidate who finished second in the last election. Both politicians claim that this action is a direct consequence of their vocal criticism regarding recent accords established with the Trump administration.
At a press conference held on Monday, Torrijos, who held the presidency from 2004 to 2009, announced that he had received notification from U.S. authorities about the cancellation of his visa. Lombana also reported that he was notified via email on the same day. Torrijos emphasized the broader implications of this decision, stating, "This is a warning to all Panamanians that criticism of the Panamanian government’s actions regarding its relations with the United States will not be tolerated."
These measures have come on the heels of increasing tensions between Panama and President Trump, particularly after his administration expressed intentions to regain control over the Panama Canal, a vital waterway previously managed by the U.S. but handed back to Panama following the Carter administration's agreements.
Current Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino has declared support for national sovereignty, but has faced backlash for perceived concessions to Trump, including allowing the deportation of non-Panamanian migrants from the United States and an agreement to let more U.S. troops operate on three former U.S. bases in Panama. This culminated in a controversial claimed agreement concerning the fees for American warships traversing the canal, which Mulino has publicly denied making.
The escalation of diplomatic strain raises questions about the future of U.S.-Panama relations and the degree to which international criticism will be met with punitive actions in the realm of travel and diplomacy.
