Panama Canal Authority Administrator Ricaurte Vasquez, left, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, center, and Southcom Commander Navy Adm. Alvin Holsey pose for a photo during a tour of the Panama Canal’s Miraflores Locks,

The Panama Canal has been a focal point of President Trump's broadside against China since his inaugural speech, and it's getting new focus as Beijing looks at alternatives to trading with the U.S. De

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says the U.S. is partnering with Panama to secure the Panama Canal. Also, FBI Director Kash Patel was removed as Acting ATF Director. Independent Veterans of America founder and CEO and Iraq veteran Paul Rieckhoff joins Christina Ruffini to weigh in.

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said that he would sign a declaration with Panama Wednesday on the security and operation of the Panama Canal to allow U.S. warships to "sail first and free."

The United States has reaffirmed Panamas sovereignty over the Panama Canal during U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseths recent visit, the first by a Pentagon chief in decades. Despite strong rhetoric from Washington,

The secretary of defense claims, “I know exactly what I’m doing,” despite breaking every military rule about security and putting our fellow soldiers in harm’s way. This arrogance is dangerous when we add significant power and responsibility.

We certainly respect the sovereignty of the Panamanians,” the U.S. defense secretary said before departing the country back to Washington.