Trump Slams UK-Mauritius Chagos Deal: What You Need to Know

Wed Jan 21 2026 13:56:32 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Donald Trump labels the UK-Mauritius Chagos Islands deal as 'great stupidity', prompting a strong defense from the UK government. Dive into the details of this controversial agreement and its implications for international relations.

A recent agreement between the UK and Mauritius regarding the Chagos Islands has sparked criticism from Donald Trump, who labeled it 'an act of great stupidity.' The UK government, while defending the deal, emphasizes that it retains control over a vital military base on Diego Garcia. Despite Trump's objections, the UK asserts it has the backing of its allies, and the deal aims to secure the operation of the military base for future security.

The UK government has defended a deal to give the Chagos Islands to Mauritius and lease back a key military base, following criticism from US President Donald Trump over its handling.

In a post on social media, Trump labelled the move as an 'act of great stupidity', months after he and senior US officials endorsed it. Later on Tuesday he confirmed he was 'against' the deal.

The UK government said it would 'never compromise on our national security', while the prime minister's official spokesperson insisted the US still supported the move.

The UK signed the £3.4bn ($4.6bn) agreement in May, under which it would retain control of a UK-US military base on the largest of the islands, Diego Garcia.

Before signing the deal, the UK offered Trump an effective veto due to its implications for US security. Allies of the president had criticized the plan, but Trump had previously voiced support after a meeting with the UK prime minister.

Mauritius' attorney general confirmed he expects the agreement to move forward, emphasizing that it was exclusively negotiated and concluded between the UK and Mauritius.

The Chagos Islands have a controversial history, having been separated from Mauritius in 1965. Under the current deal, the UK will hand over sovereignty to Mauritius while retaining control of Diego Garcia, leasing it back for 99 years.

In response to Trump's criticism, UK officials maintain that the deal is supported by their allies and is essential for maintaining national and global security.