Potential plans range from partnering more closely with Panamanian security forces to a less likely option of U.S. troops' seizing the canal by force, U.S. officials told NBC News.

The White House has ordered the US military to plan a troop increase in Panama to support President Trump's goal of "reclaiming" the canal, reportedly to curb China's influence and secure US control.

American access to the Panama Canal, one of several new directives outlined in what amounts to a major overhaul of US strategic priorities, according to a new memo that was sent to senior leaders and reviewed by CNN.