Former U.S. President Donald Trump has sparked fresh controversy this week, publicly urging the UK to abandon its 2025 agreement to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius while leasing back Diego Garcia—a key U.S.-UK military base. In a Truth Social post on February 17, Trump called the 99-year lease a "big mistake," contradicting his earlier support for the deal. 🗣️
Strategic Tensions in the Indian Ocean
Trump emphasized Diego Garcia's strategic importance, warning that losing control could weaken defenses against potential threats from Iran. His remarks clash with current U.S. and UK government positions, both of which back the agreement as vital for regional security. 🌊
The Backstory
The UK transferred sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius in May 2025 but retained Diego Garcia under a 99-year lease. The base has been critical for U.S. military operations since the Cold War. Critics, including UK opposition figures, now accuse Trump of undermining Prime Minister Keir Starmer's diplomacy. 🇬🇧🇺🇸
Political Fallout
Trump's flip-flop—from calling the deal "great stupidity" in January to tentative support in early February—has drawn sharp rebukes. Shadow Foreign Secretary Priti Patel labeled it an "utter humiliation" for Starmer, while Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey urged closer EU ties, citing U.S. "flip-flopping." 🔥
With U.S.-Mauritius talks looming next week, the debate over Diego Garcia's future remains a geopolitical flashpoint. Stay tuned for updates. 📅
