Trump Opposes Chagos Islands Handover
Analysis based on 19 articles · First reported Feb 18, 2026 · Last updated Feb 19, 2026
The ongoing dispute and Donald Trump's intervention create uncertainty around the future of the United Kingdom — Diego Garcia military base, which is crucial for global defense strategies. This geopolitical tension could impact defense sector investments and international relations, particularly between the United States and the United Kingdom.
Donald Trump has publicly urged Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, not to proceed with a deal to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Archipelago to Mauritius. Trump called the deal a 'big mistake' and a 'blight' on the United Kingdom as an ally, emphasizing the strategic importance of the United Kingdom — Diego Garcia military base for potential operations against Iran. This intervention comes despite the United States — United States Department of State having previously approved the deal, which would see the United Kingdom lease the base from Mauritius for 99 years at a cost of £35 billion. Trump's changing stance has caused political embarrassment for Keir Starmer, with figures like Priti Patel and Ed Davey criticizing the United Kingdom's government. Meanwhile, Chagossians, the indigenous population, have protested the deal, seeking the right to return to their homeland, leading to removal orders issued by British authorities.
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