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Trump Backs Controversial Chagos Islands Deal Amid Military Concerns

2/7/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump endorses the UK's Chagos Islands deal as the "best" option after previously calling it an "act of great stupidity."
Following talks with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump stressed Diego Garcia's importance and warned he would reinforce U.S. military presence if the agreement falters.
The deal transfers sovereignty to Mauritius while the U.K. leases back the Diego Garcia base for 99 years at about £35 billion.

History

Historical Context

In 1965, the UK detached the Chagos Archipelago from Mauritius, establishing the British Indian Ocean Territory to facilitate a U.S. military base on Diego Garcia. Between 1967 and 1973, the UK forcibly removed the Chagossians, leading to ongoing sovereignty disputes. In 2024, the UK agreed to transfer sovereignty to Mauritius while retaining control over Diego Garcia for 99 years, reflecting complex geopolitical tensions in the Indian Ocean.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump endorses the UK's Chagos Islands deal as the "best" option after previously calling it an "act of great stupidity."
Following talks with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump stressed Diego Garcia's importance and warned he would reinforce U.S. military presence if the agreement falters.
The deal transfers sovereignty to Mauritius while the U.K. leases back the Diego Garcia base for 99 years at about £35 billion.

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