US President Donald Trump criticized British Prime Minister Keir Starmer for finalizing a lease agreement concerning the Chagos archipelago in the Indian Ocean, where the US-UK Diego Garcia air base is located. The agreement, set for 2025, will see Britain transferring sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius while maintaining control of the strategically significant Diego Garcia base through a 99-year lease.
Trump expressed his disapproval on Truth Social, warning against giving up control of Diego Garcia, emphasizing its potential role in future military actions, particularly in countering threats from Iran. He specifically advised PM Starmer against entering into long-term leases involving countries, questioning the wisdom of the 100-year lease agreement related to Diego Garcia.
In response to Trump’s statements, a spokesperson from the British foreign office defended the agreement, emphasizing its importance for the security of the UK and its allies. The spokesperson asserted that the deal was essential for ensuring the continued operation of the crucial military base.
The exchange of remarks between Trump and British officials adds another twist to the ongoing diplomatic discussions between the United States and the United Kingdom regarding the lease agreement.