Trump Shifts on UK's Diego Garcia Deal, Adds Military Threat

A Productive Reversal with a Firm Warning

U.S. President Donald Trump has reversed his harsh criticism of a UK agreement to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, signaling a new, more accepting stance after discussions with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

In a social media post on Thursday, Trump described his talks with Starmer as "very productive." He acknowledged the UK's position on returning the islands to Mauritius while leasing back the strategic military base at Diego Garcia.

"I understand that the deal Prime Minister Starmer has made, according to many, the best he could make," Trump posted.

However, this softer tone came with a significant condition. Trump added a stark warning about the future of the U.S. military presence on the island.

"If the lease deal, sometime in the future, ever falls apart, or anyone threatens or endangers U.S. operations and forces at our Base, I retain the right to Militarily secure and reinforce the American presence in Diego Garcia," he stated, without providing details on what such military action would entail.

From "Great Stupidity" to Cautious Support

This new position marks a sharp turn from the president's previous rhetoric. Last month, Trump had publicly condemned the UK's decision regarding the Chagos Islands, calling it "an act of GREAT STUPIDITY."

The administration's fluctuating stance highlights the diplomatic complexities surrounding the strategically vital military installation.

The Strategic Value of Diego Garcia

The Diego Garcia base, located on the Chagos Islands, is a critical military asset for both the United States and the United Kingdom. Positioned nearly 2,000 miles (3,200 kilometers) from the coast of East Africa, the facility enables the projection of military power across the Middle East and Asia.

Under the agreement finalized last year, Mauritius would gain sovereignty over the islands, but the UK would maintain "full responsibility for the defense and security of Diego Garcia" for a 99-year period. The deal was initially viewed as a success for the British government, particularly after securing early support from the Trump administration.

Republican Concerns Over China's Influence

Despite the administration's revised stance, some Republican lawmakers remain worried about the deal's implications. Their primary concern is that the new arrangement could create an opportunity for China to conduct espionage on U.S. military activities at the base.

These fears are part of a broader anxiety in Washington about Beijing's expanding economic and military footprint throughout the Indian Ocean region.