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Starmer Abandons Chagos Islands Deal

Starmer Abandons Chagos Islands Deal

The proposed 2024 agreement, which would have leased the strategic base of Diego Garcia for 99 years, is in tatters after President Trump withdrew U.S. support.

Starmer faced intense pressure from both Washington and domestic critics who argued the deal compromised national security.

The Royal Navy is also facing scrutiny over its ability to patrol British waters, with reports suggesting it may need French assistance to intercept Russian vessels.

This collapse highlights the significant influence of the new U.S. administration on British foreign policy.

Keir Starmer
Prime Minister of the United Kingdom since 2024
Donald Trump
President of the United States (2017–2021; since 2025)
Chagos Archipelago
Archipelago in the Indian Ocean
Mauritius
Island sovereign state off of East Africa in the Indian Ocean
Diego Garcia
Mauritus atoll in the Indian Ocean