#aihistory — On December 20, 1989, the United States launched Operation Just Cause, invading Panama with the goals of ousting dictator Manuel Noriega and protecting American citizens. Over 27,000 U.S. troops were sent amid tensions after Noriega annulled elections. Fighting lasted just over a month, with the U.S. eventually capturing Noriega. Though criticized, the invasion met key goals of removing Noriega & installing Panama’s democratically elected president. The operation marked one of the U.S.’s final 20th century military actions in Latin America.