Donald Trump has once again changed his stance on the Chagos Islands issue, this time criticizing Keir Starmer after previously supporting the Prime Minister’s agreement with Mauritius. In a lengthy social media post on Truth Social, Trump expressed his disapproval of Starmer’s decision, calling it a “big mistake” just two weeks after holding a contrary view.
This latest development adds to the confusion surrounding the 79-year-old former US President’s position on the matter. Trump stated that entering a 100-year lease with parties claiming rights to Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean is misguided, emphasizing his belief that leases are inadequate when it comes to countries.
Earlier this month, Trump had backtracked on his initial criticism of the Islands’ handover, acknowledging that the agreement was the best option Starmer could secure. The deal involves the UK relinquishing sovereignty of the islands to Mauritius after two centuries of British control and entering into a 99-year lease for Diego Garcia, home to a crucial US-UK military base, at an annual cost of £101 million.
In his recent post, Trump raised doubts about the legitimacy of the claims made by entities hitherto unknown, asserting that the UK is losing control of the strategically important island. He suggested that the Diego Garcia base may be essential for potential actions against Iran. Despite the US State Department confirming its support for the UK’s agreement with Mauritius, Trump’s conflicting statements have caused confusion.
Trump’s statements also hinted at the possibility of using Diego Garcia or the airfield in Fairford, operated by the US Air Force, for potential actions against Iran. RAF Fairford, though owned by the Ministry of Defence, is predominantly used by the US Department of Defence for operations.
Keir Starmer has clarified that the Chagos deal was reviewed and supported by the US intelligence services, with key figures in the Trump administration endorsing the agreement. The PM highlighted the thorough review conducted by US agencies before they expressed their clear support for the deal, despite initial uncertainties during the early stages of the Trump administration.