A potential agreement transferring control of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius is now in jeopardy as President Donald Trump has called for its cancellation. The crucial legislation required for the deal will not be featured in the upcoming King’s Speech, as Trump denounced it as a “foolish act” and withdrew his support. Despite this, UK opposition leader Keir Starmer remains committed to the agreement and aims to sway Trump’s stance.
Government officials are reportedly dismayed by Trump’s wavering position, as he had previously endorsed the deal after extensive negotiations. Trump’s change of heart is believed to stem from a disagreement with NATO regarding plans concerning Greenland.
The proposed deal, which sparked controversy in the UK, would have transferred the islands to Mauritius and involved a 99-year lease for Diego Garcia, where a UK military base is located. The government estimated the deal would incur costs of £3.5 billion.
Starmer’s relationship with Trump has soured recently, with the Labour Party leader criticizing the US President’s actions in the Middle East. Trump, in turn, criticized the UK for not utilizing the island base in the initial strikes on Iran.
Starmer condemned the strikes as unlawful and poorly executed, expressing discontent with both Trump and Russian President Putin. The King’s Speech on May 13 outlines the government’s priorities for the upcoming parliamentary session, although the Chagos Islands deal is notably absent, with hopes of persuading Trump to reconsider.
Concerns have arisen that Mauritius might pursue legal action to compel the UK to grant temporary access to waters surrounding the islands, potentially complicating US surveillance efforts in the region.