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U.K. Confirms Chagos Islands Deal Amid U.S. Criticism

2/27/2026

47 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The U.K. government says the Chagos Islands deal is "100 per cent" proceeding, according to Communities Minister Alison McGovern.
While talks between Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper and U.S. officials continue, she clarified the deal is proceeding.
U.S. President Donald Trump criticized the deal, labeling it a "big mistake."
The timeline for the Bill's return to Parliament remains unclear, adding to uncertainty about ratification.

History

Historical Context

In 1965, the UK detached the Chagos Islands from Mauritius to establish a U.S. military base on Diego Garcia, leading to the forced removal of around 2,000 Chagossians by 1973. This act has been widely condemned as a human rights violation. In 2024, the UK agreed to transfer sovereignty to Mauritius while retaining control over Diego Garcia for 99 years, reflecting ongoing colonial legacies and geopolitical interests.

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Story summary

The U.K. government says the Chagos Islands deal is "100 per cent" proceeding, according to Communities Minister Alison McGovern.
While talks between Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper and U.S. officials continue, she clarified the deal is proceeding.
U.S. President Donald Trump criticized the deal, labeling it a "big mistake."
The timeline for the Bill's return to Parliament remains unclear, adding to uncertainty about ratification.

1 / 2