UK Reviews Chagos Islands Deal Over Lack of US Support, Trump Admin Implicated

The United Kingdom is currently reviewing its agreement to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, a decision prompted by the lack of support from the United States following critical remarks by former President Donald Trump. UK Defence Secretary Wes Streeting confirmed that the deal cannot proceed without American backing, citing the crucial role of the joint UK-US military base on Diego Garcia. Trump recently reiterated his strong opposition to the arrangement, calling it a "terrible deal" during a meeting with British Prime Minister Andy Burnham at the United Nations General Assembly.

The original agreement, signed in May 2025, stipulated that the UK would cede sovereignty of the archipelago to Mauritius while retaining a 99-year lease on the strategically important Diego Garcia base, alongside annual payments to Mauritius. However, Trump’s subsequent withdrawal of support, where he described the deal as an "act of great stupidity," led to the indefinite pausing of the necessary British legislation in April 2026.

In light of these developments, the UK government is now focused on collaborating with the US to modify the agreement. The aim is to address American concerns and secure their endorsement, thereby ensuring the continued, long-term operation of the vital military base on Diego Garcia, which is central to both nations' security interests.