Betrayal or Strategy? Unpacking the UK's Controversial Chagos Islands Transfer and Trump's Surprising Critique

In a controversial move, President Donald Trump recently criticized the UK’s plan to return sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, branding it an “act of GREAT STUPIDITY”. This deal, worth £3.4 billion ($4.6 billion), entails the UK leasing back Diego Garcia, the largest island in the Chagos Archipelago, which houses a significant UK-US military base. Although agreed upon in May 2025, the UK Parliament has yet to ratify the agreement, meaning the islands still remain under British control.

Historically, the Chagos Islands were separated from Mauritius in 1965 under questionable circumstances that Mauritius claims were coercive, as they sought independence from British colonial rule. The islands were sold for just £3 million to Britain, leading to accusations of illegal expropriation. In the late 1960s, to establish a military base on Diego Garcia, the UK forcibly relocated thousands of Chagossians, some of whom have since settled in the UK and other regions.

Under the current agreement, the UK will return sovereignty but maintain military usage of Diego Garcia through a 99-year lease, involving significant annual payments and a £40 million trust fund aimed at supporting displaced Chagossians. Importantly, while Mauritius will own the islands, it will not be permitted to resettle its own former inhabitants.

In an earlier show of support, Trump had previously commended the UK’s decision, discussing a powerful lease arrangement. Yet, he recently reversed his stance, publicly condemning the transaction on Truth Social, stating there was “no reason whatsoever” for the UK to give up Diego Garcia, which he regarded as vital for U.S. military operations. His remarks coincided with criticisms aimed at UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, suggesting a strategic move amid broader geopolitical maneuvers, such as his own pursuit of Greenland.

Responses in the UK vary; some, including Kemi Badenoch, echo Trump’s critique, labeling the deal not only stupid but as an act of self-sabotage. Meanwhile, Mauritian officials stress the deal as a victory for their nation’s sovereignty and a significant step toward decolonization.

Diego Garcia’s strategic importance has been historically magnified, especially post-9/11, making the base a critical component of U.S. military operations in the Indian Ocean. The future of the Chagos Islands remains contentious and complicated, embodying both historic injustices and current strategic interests of global powers.