The United States diplomatic headquarters has clarified reports concerning military personnel in Panama. Contrary to a report published by The New York Times, the U.S. has stated that only 120 members of the 10th Mountain Division are currently in Panama. These soldiers are participating in a temporary, two-week training exercise focused on jungle warfare. The clarification directly addresses claims of a larger deployment of 600 soldiers to Panamanian territory. The U.S. maintains that the purpose of the operation is solely for training purposes. This announcement comes after the initial report gained traction through EL NACIONAL and other media outlets. The limited nature of the deployment aims to reassure that it doesn’t signify any change in U.S. military strategy in the region.