The British government has reaffirmed its commitment to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, despite criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump. On Tuesday, Trump condemned the move, labeling it as “an act of stupidity” and reiterated his previous support for the action during his administration. The Chagos Islands, located in the Indian Ocean, include Diego Garcia, a strategically important U.S. military base.
In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump expressed his discontent with the United Kingdom’s decision to relinquish control over Diego Garcia. He stated, “Shockingly, our ‘brilliant’ NATO Ally, the United Kingdom, is currently planning to give away the Island of Diego Garcia, the site of a vital U.S. Military Base, to Mauritius, and to do so FOR NO REASON WHATSOEVER.” Trump further claimed that this decision demonstrates a “total weakness” that could embolden adversaries such as China and Russia.
The United Kingdom and Mauritius formalized their agreement in May 2023, granting Mauritius sovereignty over the islands while allowing the UK to retain a lease on Diego Garcia for a minimum of 99 years. This arrangement has been characterized by the U.S. government as a measure that “secures the long-term, stable, and effective operation of the joint U.S.-U.K. military facility at Diego Garcia.”
In response to Trump’s comments, UK Cabinet Minister Darren Jones defended the agreement, stating that it would ensure the military base remains operational for the next century. He emphasized the strategic importance of Diego Garcia, which hosts approximately 2,500 personnel, predominantly from the U.S. military.
Opposition parties in the UK have criticized the deal, arguing it poses a risk to national security and could provide increased access to the region for China. They warn that transferring control of such crucial territory may weaken the UK’s strategic position in the Indian Ocean.
The Diego Garcia base has been described as “an all but indispensable platform” for military operations in the Middle East, South Asia, and East Africa. Its continued operation is vital for U.S. and allied interests, underscoring the complexities surrounding the recent agreement between the UK and Mauritius.
As this situation unfolds, the implications of the UK-Mauritius agreement will likely continue to resonate within international relations, particularly between the UK and the United States.
