Story perspectives

Trump Slams UK’s Chagos Deal, Badenoch Backs Him

1/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

Kemi Badenoch, British foreign secretary, said she spoke with U.S. Speaker Mike Johnson before U.S. President Donald Trump criticized Labour's Chagos Islands deal.
U.S. President Donald Trump condemned the UK's plan to relinquish Diego Garcia, calling it an act of weakness.
Badenoch supported Trump's stance, arguing the deal undermines national interests and benefits adversaries China and Russia.
Johnson's visit aims to ease US-Europe tensions and reaffirm the enduring US-UK relationship.

History

Historical Context

The United Kingdom forcibly removed the Chagossians from the Chagos Archipelago between 1967 and 1973 to establish a U.S. military base on Diego Garcia. This strategic location has hosted thousands of military personnel and remains pivotal for U.S. operations. In 2024, the UK agreed to transfer sovereignty to Mauritius while retaining control of the base, reflecting ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Indian Ocean.

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Story summary

Kemi Badenoch, British foreign secretary, said she spoke with U.S. Speaker Mike Johnson before U.S. President Donald Trump criticized Labour's Chagos Islands deal.
U.S. President Donald Trump condemned the UK's plan to relinquish Diego Garcia, calling it an act of weakness.
Badenoch supported Trump's stance, arguing the deal undermines national interests and benefits adversaries China and Russia.
Johnson's visit aims to ease US-Europe tensions and reaffirm the enduring US-UK relationship.

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