According to Hegseth, the United States could "by invitation" restore military bases or naval air bases and deploy troops near the canal.

However, Panamanian Defense Minister Frank Abrego strongly rejected this proposal.

"Panama has made it clear through President (Jose Raul) Mulino that we cannot accept any military bases or defensive structures," Abrego said at a joint press conference with the head of the Pentagon.

Before that, Hegseth emphasized the tough stance of the United States on Chinese influence in Panama. korrespondent.net.

"We don't want a war with China," he said. But together we must prevent war by resolutely confronting Chinese threats in this hemisphere."

In response to a journalist's question about whether the United States recognizes Panama's sovereignty over the canal, Hegseth replied: "The Panama Canal is located in Panama, and it is important to protect Panamanian sovereignty from malicious influence."