Gen. Donovan Meets with Panamanian President Mulino, Senior Security Leaders in Panama

U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) Commander Gen. Francis L. Donovan has concluded a productive visit to Panama, where he met with Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino and senior government leaders to discuss strengthening the U.S.-Panama security partnership and advancing regional stability.

During his visit March 30 - April 1, Donovan reaffirmed the United States' commitment to working side-by-side with Panama to address security challenges in the Western Hemisphere. He also met with U.S. service members in Panama participating in bilateral training as part of recent efforts to expand the U.S.-Panamanian security partnership.

Ambassador to Panama Kevin Marino Cabrera joined Donovan in the meeting with President Mulino. The leaders discussed strengthening regional security through joint counter narcotrafficking efforts and defense of the Panama Canal.

In a separate meeting with Panamanian Minister of Security Frank Alexis Ábrego, Donovan emphasized Panama's critical role as a trusted partner in advancing regional security. Discussions focused on countering narcoterrorism, safeguarding the Panama Canal, and ensuring the free flow of commerce.

As part of the visit, Donovan joined Cabrera and senior Panamanian officials for a visit to the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). The carrier and guided-missile destroyer USS Gridley (DDG 101) were in Panama as part of the multinational maritime cooperation exercise "Southern Seas 2026." The ships' visit demonstrates the strength of the expanded bilateral security partnership. This is the first time in over 50 years that an aircraft carrier has visited Panamanian waters.

"USS Nimitz and the guided-missile destroyer USS Gridley are powerful assets in our nation's arsenal," said Donovan. "Their presence in the region is a firm demonstration of our commitment to applying total systemic friction on the cartels and ensuring a secure and stable Western Hemisphere."

Additionally, Donovan and Cabrera met with U.S. service members who are training alongside Panamanian security forces personnel. The leaders visited the Jungle Operations Training Course-Panama, established in 2025, where U.S. forces and Panamanian security force personnel train together to enhance readiness and interoperability in jungle operations. This collaboration strengthens trust and joint capabilities, ensuring both nations are prepared to address emerging threats.

The visit also included a stop at the Panama Canal's Miraflores Locks, where Donovan met with Canal Administrator Dr. Ricaurte Vásquez Morales to discuss the enduring safety and security of the canal. The United States remains committed to partnering with Panama to safeguard this vital international waterway.

"The United States and Panama are committed to applying total systemic friction on the cartels," said Donovan. "Together, we are countering narcoterrorism and ensuring the enduring safety of the Panama Canal."