Donald Trump's Christmas Wishlist: Panama Canal, Canada, and Greenland

In a series of festive yet provocative posts on his social media platform, Truth Social, US President-elect Donald Trump made headlines this Christmas with his bold geopolitical aspirations. Trump reiterated his desire to reclaim the Panama Canal, annex Canada, and establish a U.S. presence in Greenland, blending holiday greetings with pointed criticisms of political opponents and foreign leaders.

Panama Canal: A "Lovingly" Operated Territory

Trump's Christmas posts began with a focus on the Panama Canal, which he claims is being mismanaged by foreign operators. “Merry Christmas to all, including the wonderful soldiers of China, who are lovingly but illegally operating the Panama Canal,” Trump wrote. He criticized the arrangement, stating, “We lost 38,000 lives building it 110 years ago, invest billions in its maintenance, but have no say in its operation.”

Later in the day, Trump announced Kevin Marino Cabrera as the U.S. Ambassador to Panama, declaring that Panama was “ripping the U.S. off far beyond their wildest dreams” regarding the canal’s operations.

Canada: The 51st State?

Trump also reignited his controversial idea to annex Canada, taking aim at Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Trump suggested that under U.S. governance, Canadians would enjoy significant tax reductions, business growth, and enhanced military protection. “Their taxes would be cut by more than 60 percent, their businesses would immediately double in size, and they would be militarily protected like no other country in the world,” Trump asserted.

While his remarks sparked debate, Trump positioned the move as a win-win for both nations, stating, “If Canada joins us, they will prosper beyond imagination.”

Greenland: "We Will Be There"

Addressing the people of Greenland, Trump doubled down on his earlier calls to acquire the island. “We will be there,” he stated confidently, suggesting that Greenland’s citizens would welcome U.S. influence and investment. The statement was reminiscent of Trump’s 2019 proposal to purchase the territory, which was initially dismissed as unrealistic.

Criticism of Political Opponents

Not one to shy away from controversy, Trump also targeted “radical Left lunatics” in his posts, accusing them of obstructing the legal and electoral systems. He refused to extend Christmas greetings to those he labeled as “violent criminals” pardoned by outgoing President Joe Biden, instead offering the blunt remark: “GO TO HELL!”

Trump's Animated Festive Spirit

Despite the pointed rhetoric, Trump embraced a lighter tone in his Christmas greetings to supporters. He shared a GIF on X (formerly Twitter), featuring himself in a blue suit and Santa hat, riding a sleigh filled with gifts. Trump’s signature fist-pump dance move was prominently displayed in the animation. The post quickly garnered attention, with Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk responding with a fire emoji, Santa Claus icon, and an American flag.

A Holiday Message with a Political Punch

Trump’s Christmas posts have sparked a mix of amusement, support, and criticism. His unorthodox approach to holiday greetings, blending personal style with political aspirations, underscores the unique tone he brings to the global stage as he prepares to assume office.