Panamanians wonder: is that U.S. aircraft carrier meant to protect Obama at the summit?

Panamanians woke up yesterday morning to the unfamiliar and slightly aggressive sight of a U.S. aircraft carrier anchored in the bay off Panama City.

Radio talk show hosts squawked excitedly on the airwaves as rattletrap taxis and luxury sports cars slowed along the Cinta Costera to gaze out at the U.S. warship, visible from every bend in the coastal road.

Some gaped in awe, others with disgust. With only three days to go before Panama City plays host to the Summit of the Americas, many Panamanians are questioning what type of message the U.S. is trying to send by bringing a warship to peace talks.

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