US military deployed to Panama for Panama Canal defense exercises, cooperating with Panamanian armed forces

US armed forces are training in Panama to conduct exercises to defend the Panama Canal, following an agreement signed in April. The US embassy announced that the military will cooperate with Panamanian security forces in specific operations. Although the agreement allows for the deployment of troops, it does not include the establishment of US military bases. Protests have erupted in Panama against the treaty, which is seen as a threat to national sovereignty.