Trump Accepts Chagos Return While Securing 99 Year Lease For Diego Garcia

US President Donald Trump has signaled his support for the UK’s decision to return the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, following a high-stakes conversation with Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The President, who previously voiced strong opposition to the handover, stated on his Truth Social platform that he now believes the Prime Minister secured the “best deal possible.”

The shift in stance provides a significant boost to the Labour government, which had faced the prospect of a diplomatic U-turn if the US administration remained hostile to the agreement.

Security Guarantees for Diego Garcia

Despite his endorsement, President Trump issued a stern warning regarding the future of the strategically vital Diego Garcia military base.

While accepting the terms of the restitution, he vowed to intervene should American interests be compromised.

“If this lease agreement fails in the near future, or if anyone threatens or endangers American operations and forces on our base, I reserve the right to militarily protect and strengthen the US presence at Diego Garcia,” the President wrote.

He further emphasized that he would not allow the base’s operations to be undermined by what he described as “false arguments” or “environmental nonsense.”

A 99-Year Strategic Lease

The agreement, originally signed in May 2025, dictates that the United Kingdom will return sovereignty of the Chagos Archipelago to Mauritius.

However, the UK will retain a 99-year lease on the main island of Diego Garcia to ensure the continued operation of the joint UK-US military facility.

Following the discussion, Downing Street confirmed that both leaders have committed to “continue working closely on the implementation of the agreement.”

Shifting Tensions

The “very productive” dialogue marks a notable change in tone for the US President.

Previously, his negative position had placed immense pressure on Keir Starmer, with many speculating the Prime Minister might be forced to “change his tune” on the archipelago’s future.

With this newfound consensus, the focus now moves to the long-term execution of the treaty, though the President’s caveat remains clear: the security of the Indian Ocean outpost remains a non-negotiable priority for Washington.

Source: Defi Media