The revocation of U.S. visas for Panama's former president, Martín Torrijos, and presidential aspirant, Ricardo Lombana, is seen as retaliation for their outspoken criticism of U.S.-Panama agreements, highlighting tensions between the two nations over sovereignty and diplomatic conduct.
U.S. Revokes Visas for Panamanian Leaders Over Trump Criticism

U.S. Revokes Visas for Panamanian Leaders Over Trump Criticism
The State Department's decision to cancel travel visas of a former president and a presidential candidate from Panama raises concerns about freedom of speech and international relations.
In a controversial move, the U.S. State Department has revoked the travel visas of former Panamanian president Martín Torrijos and presidential candidate Ricardo Lombana. Announced on June 17, 2025, this decision has been perceived as a direct response to their vocal opposition against recent U.S.-Panama agreements negotiated under President Trump.
Torrijos, who served as president from 2004 to 2009, disclosed during a press conference that he received notification from the U.S. government about the cancellation of his visa. Lombana also confirmed via email that his permit to travel to the U.S. had been revoked.
“This action is not just about me,” Torrijos remarked. “It serves as a warning to all Panamanians that any criticism of the government’s dealings with the United States will be met with consequences.”
The tensions between Panama and the Trump administration have escalated; Trump made headlines shortly after taking office with his claims of regaining control over the Panama Canal—a vital asset once owned by the U.S. and handed back to Panama under President Jimmy Carter.
Current Panamanian President, José Raúl Mulino, has tried to defend the country's sovereignty. However, his administration has faced significant backlash for what critics perceive as capitulations to U.S. demands. Among these actions, Mulino's government has reportedly accepted non-Panamanian migrants returning from the U.S. and permitted an increase in American military presence at three former U.S. bases within Panama.
Despite claims from the United States that Mulino’s administration agreed to eliminate fees for American naval vessels passing through the Panama Canal, the president has denied making such concessions, further contributing to the rising diplomatic strain between the nations.