The latest updates on Trump’s presidency as his tariff pledge takes effect.

Updated 10:06 AM EST, Sat February 1, 2025

Here’s a rewritten version of your article:

---

Migration Takes Center Stage in Rubio’s First Central America Trip as Top US Diplomat

By CNN’s Jennifer Hansler and Priscilla Alvarez

Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Panama on Saturday for his first official trip as the United States' top diplomat, with migration emerging as a key priority.

Rubio’s visit will test whether his diplomatic approach can build on former President Donald Trump’s assertive and transactional "America First" foreign policy, particularly in addressing migration challenges.

His decision to tour Central America—stopping in Panama, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic—reflects a strategic effort to strengthen US engagement in the region. The trip underscores the administration’s commitment to focusing on its own hemisphere, a key pillar of Trump-era diplomacy.

Migration remains at the forefront of discussions, especially following last Sunday's intense standoff between Trump and Colombian President Gustavo Petro.

While in Panama City, Rubio is also expected to address concerns over the Panama Canal—an issue Trump has repeatedly argued should return to US control. Additionally, countering China’s growing influence in the region is high on his agenda.

However, some US officials and aid organizations argue that Rubio’s sweeping freeze on foreign assistance has weakened efforts to curb illegal migration, drug trafficking, and other regional challenges.

Meanwhile, Trump administration officials continue to craft a Latin America strategy, recognizing the region's crucial role in advancing their strict deportation policies.

---

Let me know if you'd like any further refinements!