Manuel Noriega, who had ruled Panama since 1983, faced growing opposition from both internal forces and foreign governments, particularly the United States. The U.S. had previously supported Noriega but became increasingly concerned about his ties to drug trafficking organizations and his troubling human rights record. In December 1989, the United States launched Operation Just Cause, a military invasion intended to depose Noriega and restore democratic governance in Panama. This extensive military operation involved thousands of U.S. troops and significant air and ground action. Noriega initially sought refuge in the Vatican's diplomatic mission in Panama City, where he remained for several weeks as U.S. forces surrounded the compound, applying pressure through various means including loudspeaker announcements intended to coax him out. After days of negotiations and the imposition of psychological tactics, Noriega finally surrendered to U.S. troops, thus ending the prolonged conflict. His capture was viewed as a pivotal moment, representing a clear stance by the U.S. against authoritarian regimes in Latin America.