UK shelves Chagos deal after Trump opposition

UK Postpones Chagos Islands Agreement Amid Trump’s Criticism

The UK government has delayed its plan to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, following shifting dynamics with President Donald Trump. The US has yet to officially endorse the treaty, prompting Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to halt legislative progress. Earlier, Trump had praised the deal but later condemned it as a “move of total weakness” in January, casting doubt on its viability.

Officials note that the agreement—granting Mauritius control over the British Indian Ocean Territory—remains active, though no new legislation is anticipated in the King’s Speech by mid-May. The delay stems from the UK’s inability to secure a formal exchange of letters from the US, a legal requirement for the treaty to take effect. The Chagos Islands, part of the British Indian Ocean Territory, have been under UK administration since the 19th century.

“Diego Garcia remains a vital military asset for both nations. Our priority is ensuring its operational security, which justifies the deal,” stated a government representative.

The deal would involve the UK transferring sovereignty to Mauritius while leasing the Diego Garcia base for an annual £101m. Despite this, Trump recently criticized the arrangement, calling it “a blight on our great ally” and urging Starmer to abandon it. His remarks followed the US Department of State’s earlier endorsement of the plan.

Political responses have been mixed. Conservatives and Reform UK welcomed the shelving of the deal, with Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch asserting that the “Chagos surrender” would be a legacy of Labour’s decision. Reform UK’s Nigel Farage highlighted the need to “right a terrible wrong” and assist Chagossians in resettling their homeland.

Liberal Democrat officials criticized the handling of the agreement, calling it “a shambolic process” from the previous administration to the current one. They emphasized the importance of securing US support and ensuring clarity on military partnerships and Chagossian rights.

Chagossians, however, view the deal as a betrayal, arguing it undermines their claim to return to the islands. The UK’s pause in legislative action has left the future of the agreement uncertain, with officials continuing negotiations while balancing strategic interests and domestic pressure.