President Donald Trump gave British Prime Minister Keir Starmer a diplomatic boost by indicating that he would be willing to back an agreement between Mauritius and Britain over the Chagos Islands.
The deal, which includes a long-term lease of the U.S.-UK military base on Diego Garcia, has been under scrutiny since Trump’s re-election.
During a meeting with Starmer at the White House, Trump expressed excitement about the agreement, stating that discussions were underway and he was inclined to back it. “We have to be given the details, but it doesn’t sound bad,” Trump said, emphasizing the strategic importance of the deal.
In October, Britain agreed to return sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius while maintaining control over Diego Garcia under a 99-year lease. The agreement had the support of former U.S. President Joe Biden, but its finalization was delayed as the Trump administration reviewed the terms.
The decision has sparked debate within the UK, with Starmer facing domestic political pressure over the implications of ceding sovereignty. The lease ensures continued U.S. military presence in the Indian Ocean, a vital location for global security operations.
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The agreement’s future has been clouded by recent political shifts in Mauritius, where the newly elected prime minister has raised concerns about its specifics. Additionally, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has expressed apprehension over potential Chinese influence in the region.
Despite these challenges, Trump’s latest remarks signal a move toward finalizing the deal. His support could ease diplomatic tensions and reinforce the military alliance between the U.S. and the UK.
Diego Garcia has been a key U.S. military base for decades, playing a crucial role in operations across the Middle East and Asia. The U.S. and UK consider it an essential asset for defense strategy, making its future a significant geopolitical concern.
With Trump showing signs of approval, the deal is expected to move forward, though further negotiations may be required. Starmer, in response to Trump’s remarks, emphasized the importance of maintaining strong ties between Britain and the U.S. while addressing concerns over national interests.
