Trump compared to mobster Tony Soprano by former envoy to Panama

John Feeley launches stinging critique of US president's bully-boy approach to Latin America

The former US ambassador to Panama has launched a stinging critique of Donald Trump's approach towards Latin America, comparing his conduct to that of the ruthless and egotistical fictional mob boss Tony Soprano.

In the first month of his presidency, the US president has shocked some observers with his aggressive focus on a region many expected him to largely ignore. Early steps have included threatening to take back" the Panama Canal, accusing Mexico's government of being in cahoots with narco-traffickers, sending an envoy to meet the Venezuelan dictator, Nicolas Maduro, and clashing with Colombia's president, Gustavo Petro, over deportation flights.