In a reported surprise move, United States President-elect Donald Trump has suggested renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America” during a press conference at Mar-a-Lago on Tuesday.
This proposal was part of a wide-ranging discussion that also touched on Trump’s desire to acquire Greenland and the Panama Canal, as well as his criticism of President Joe Biden’s final actions before leaving office.
Trump began his remarks by announcing a $20 billion investment from DAMAC Properties, a Middle-East based company, to build new data centres across the United States.
However, he quickly shifted focus to his plans for the Gulf of Mexico, stating, “What a beautiful name [Gulf of America]. And it’s appropriate. It’s appropriate”.
This proposal has so far raised eyebrows, particularly given the Gulf of Mexico’s rich history and cultural significance. The name “Gulf of Mexico” dates back to the 16th-century Spanish explorers, and the region is home to a diverse range of ecosystems and communities.
Trump’s desire to acquire Greenland and the Panama Canal has also sparked controversy, with the President-elect refusing to rule out the use of military force or economic coercion to achieve his goals.
When asked about his plans, Trump stated: “No, I can’t assure you on either of those two. But I can say this, we need them for economic security”.
The President-elect’s comments have been met with skepticism, particularly given the complexities of international relations and the potential consequences of such actions.
As Trump prepares to take office, it remains to be seen how his proposals will be received by the international community and the American public.
