Former President Donald Trump has recently changed his stance on the Chagos Islands deal, marking a notable shift from his previous endorsement of the agreement. Initially, Trump and his administration were supportive of the pact finalized between the United Kingdom and Mauritius in May, which allowed for the leasing of the UK-US military base on Diego Garcia. The arrangement was touted at the time as a means to ensure a “long-term, stable, and effective operation” in the region.
Marco Rubio, the U.S. Secretary of State, celebrated the deal, expressing that the U.S. “welcomed the historic agreement.” He commended both the UK and Mauritius for their “leadership” and “vision,” suggesting that the deal not only secured military interests but also fortified diplomatic ties between the nations. During a meeting between Trump and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the White House, Trump declared his support, emphasizing that the milestone showcased the enduring strength of the U.S.-UK relationship.
Moreover, Joe Biden, whose presidency followed Trump’s, also voiced his endorsement of the deal. Upon its announcement in October 2024, Biden expressed his approval, acknowledging the historic nature of the agreement and the successful conclusion of negotiations between Mauritius and the UK. Secretary of State Antony Blinken further affirmed that the U.S. had “strongly supported” these negotiations, highlighting the cooperative efforts that made the deal possible.
This evolving perspective from high-profile political figures reflects the complex nature of international relations and the varying dynamics of support for geopolitical agreements. The Chagos Islands deal continues to be a significant point of discourse for both British and American diplomacy, symbolizing broader aspirations for stability and cooperation in global affairs.