The article discusses the U.S. State Department's recent visa cancellations for two prominent Panamanian figures as a response to their criticism of agreements with President Trump.
U.S. Visa Revocation: A Warning to Critics in Panama
U.S. Visa Revocation: A Warning to Critics in Panama
The revocation of travel visas for Panamanian politicians sparks controversy over U.S. foreign relations.
In a significant diplomatic move, the U.S. State Department has revoked visas for Martín Torrijos, a former president of Panama, and Ricardo Lombana, a presidential candidate, both of whom criticized recent agreements between Panama and the Trump administration. Torrijos disclosed this news at a press conference on June 17, 2025, asserting that the action represents a clear retaliation against dissenters.
"Criticism of the Panamanian government’s actions in relation with the United States will not be tolerated," Torrijos declared, highlighting the broader implications for political freedom in Panama. The tensions heightened following Trump's assertive stance on reclaiming the Panama Canal, which had initially been transferred to Panama under President Jimmy Carter.
Current Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino has faced backlash for perceived concessions to the U.S., including agreements to accept deported migrants and increasing the presence of U.S. troops at former military bases in Panama. Despite official statements denying such claims, reports suggest that these negotiations have strained relations between Panama and its citizens, who fear the loss of sovereignty.
This latest incident has caused a rift in U.S.-Panama relations, with local politicians now grappling with the repercussions of publicly opposing U.S. policy. The revocations signal a potential chilling effect on the political landscape of Panama, as citizens and leaders alike consider the risks associated with criticizing U.S. foreign policy.
"Criticism of the Panamanian government’s actions in relation with the United States will not be tolerated," Torrijos declared, highlighting the broader implications for political freedom in Panama. The tensions heightened following Trump's assertive stance on reclaiming the Panama Canal, which had initially been transferred to Panama under President Jimmy Carter.
Current Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino has faced backlash for perceived concessions to the U.S., including agreements to accept deported migrants and increasing the presence of U.S. troops at former military bases in Panama. Despite official statements denying such claims, reports suggest that these negotiations have strained relations between Panama and its citizens, who fear the loss of sovereignty.
This latest incident has caused a rift in U.S.-Panama relations, with local politicians now grappling with the repercussions of publicly opposing U.S. policy. The revocations signal a potential chilling effect on the political landscape of Panama, as citizens and leaders alike consider the risks associated with criticizing U.S. foreign policy.
