Trump softens criticism of UKs Chagos Islands deal following meeting with Starmer

US President Donald Trump has expressed support for the agreement between British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Mauritian leaders to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius.

The deal, announced last May, involves the UK and Mauritius jointly relinquishing control of the archipelago in exchange for guarantees that the US military base on the island of Diego Garcia can continue operating for 99 years. Trump had previously described the agreement as an “act of great stupidity,” but stated that he held productive talks with Starmer on Thursday.

During these discussions, Trump reportedly warned that the US would maintain its right to “militarily secure and reinforce” the US presence on Diego Garcia if it were threatened. The UK government has confirmed that both parties agreed to continue working together to ensure the base’s operation.

The Chagos Islands have been under British control since 1814, with nearly 2,000 locals forcibly evicted in the 1960s and 1970s to make way for the US military base. Last year’s announcement sparked mixed reactions from the Chagossian community, who had campaigned for years to return to their ancestral lands freely.

The agreement has been met with varying responses from different stakeholders. The British government has stated that it will continue working closely with Mauritius and the US to guarantee the future operation of the base.

Source: Al Jazeera