Trump Buys Chagos Islands? British Media: Plans to bypass UK and take over strategic territory Diego Garcia Island

The White House is reportedly exploring a plan to acquire the Chagos Islands directly from Mauritius, a move that could circumvent the United Kingdom's involvement and potentially thwart Prime Minister Keir Starmer's plan to cede sovereignty.

According to British media reports, U.S. officials have drafted a proposal to bypass the UK and negotiate directly with Mauritius for control of Diego Garcia island. This strategically vital U.S.-UK joint base faces an uncertain future, prompting this alternative approach.

“

The White House has been in regular discussions with the British government on how to secure the future of Diego Garcia.

This proposal emerged as one of several options conceived during the Trump administration. The primary objective is to provide an alternative to the UK's plan to transfer sovereignty of the islands to Mauritius, a nation allied with China and Iran. U.S. officials are concerned that granting control of the territory to Mauritius could facilitate maritime espionage activities.

“

While buying the islands is not the White House's preferred option, the idea has been presented directly to U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who has reportedly briefed the president.

The strategic importance of Diego Garcia has been re-emphasized due to rising global tensions, including the conflict in Iran and China's growing naval power. The island's location allows it to place Iran within striking distance and support long-range bomber missions. U.S. officials have stressed the highly classified and sensitive nature of the facilities on the base, deeming its continued use essential for global operations.

While the purchase price for the Chagos Islands has not been discussed, the UK had initially planned to transfer the islands to Mauritius and then lease the military base back for 99 years, reportedly for approximately £35 billion. The UK's ability to finalize this agreement and transfer sovereignty is contingent on U.S. approval, particularly after former President Trump criticized the deal as "extremely stupid" and a sign of weakness.

“

The airbase... has extremely secret, extremely sensitive facilities and is crucial for Britain's ability to act in the world. We must retain access to this place at all costs. If we have to do it ourselves, we will never be able to replicate it.

Mauritius has repeatedly challenged the UK's ownership of the Chagos Islands in international courts, and the UK anticipates a binding ruling from the International Court of Justice that could transfer ownership. Despite these developments, a UK official recently stated that the government remains committed to its agreement with Mauritius, while a U.S. official indicated ongoing discussions with the UK to maintain Diego Garcia as a regional security platform.

“

Trump condemned the agreement as weak and 'extremely stupid,' insisting Starmer was 'losing control of this important island.'