U.S. President Donald Trump has sharply criticized UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer over the potential loss of British control of the strategically vital atoll Diego Garcia.
Trump warned that the United Kingdom should not relinquish control of the island, located in a key position in the Indian Ocean, through what he described as a “questionable” 100-year agreement with Mauritius.
According to Trump, such a deal would represent a serious mistake and a stain on one of America’s closest allies. He emphasized that long-term lease agreements are not suitable solutions when dealing with state sovereignty and strategic interests.
Strategic and Military Implications
Trump further warned that if Iran refuses to reach an agreement with the United States, it may become necessary to use the military base on Diego Garcia for operational purposes.
His remarks were made in the context of the Peace Council initiative, where, according to the White House, around 20 countries are expected to participate. Trump stressed that Iran must act quickly to reach a deal in order to avoid more severe developments.
Diego Garcia hosts a major joint UK–US military facility and has long been considered a crucial strategic asset for operations in the Middle East, Africa, and the Indo-Pacific region.
