UK Reviews Chagos Deal After Trump Criticism
Britain is re-evaluating its sovereignty transfer to Mauritius following strong US objections to the military base lease.
Key points
- UK Defense Secretary Wes Streeting confirmed the Chagos Islands deal is under review following US criticism.
- The agreement involves ceding sovereignty to Mauritius while the UK leases back the Diego Garcia base for 99 years.
- No financial payments will be made to Mauritius until a new deal acceptable to Washington is reached.
The United Kingdom has initiated a formal review of its agreement to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, according to Defense Secretary Wes Streeting. This decision follows renewed criticism from US President Donald Trump, who described the arrangement as a "terrible deal" during a meeting with Prime Minister Andy Burnham at the United Nations General Assembly.
The original pact, agreed under the previous government, would see the UK cede control of the archipelago to Mauritius while leasing back the Diego Garcia military base for 99 years. The agreement was previously paused indefinitely in April after Washington withdrew its support, citing concerns over national security and the potential for other powers to gain a foothold in the Indian Ocean.
Strategic Importance of Diego Garcia
Officials emphasize that the primary objective of the ongoing negotiations is to secure long-term stability for the Diego Garcia base. Streeting described the facility as one of the most sensitive national security assets, noting that every UK prime minister since Boris Johnson has expressed concern that the current legal dispute risks the base's security. The review aims to find a formulation that satisfies both British security requirements and American strategic interests.
Diplomatic Tensions and Financial Implications
According to BBC Africa reporting, the financial aspects of the deal remain a point of contention. The UK agreed to pay an average of £101 million annually to lease the base, though critics argue the total cost could reach £35 billion when adjusted for inflation. Streeting confirmed that no funds will be transferred to Mauritius while the review is underway. He stated that the goal is to create an arrangement that, while perhaps not ideal for all parties, is acceptable to both allies.
Path to Resolution
Prime Minister Burnham acknowledged the challenge, stating that he inherited the situation and is committed to finding a resolution. He has spoken with Mauritian Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam, reiterating the UK's desire to move forward with the deal in coordination with the US. The next steps involve intense diplomatic engagement with the Trump administration to address their specific objections before any final legislative measures are drafted.
