Panama's Sovereignty Sparks National Protests: US Military Access Under Scrutiny

Panama is at the center of a political storm as President José Raúl Mulino firmly dismissed the idea of renegotiating a contentious agreement with the United States. The accord allows US troops access to Panamanian facilities in a move that has sparked widespread public unrest.

On Tuesday, Panama City witnessed its largest protest against this agreement since US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth's visit last month. Thousands took to the streets, alarmed by potential encroachments on national sovereignty.

The US embassy has stated the agreement does not authorize military bases. Mulino emphasized Panama's sovereignty remains intact, with complete control over accessible sites and the right to end the agreement with notice.

(With inputs from agencies.)