During a recent meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, US President Donald Trump expressed support for the UK's plan to transfer control of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius.

This agreement entails the UK negotiating the transfer of sovereignty over the British Indian Ocean Territory while retaining control of the strategically significant Diego Garcia military base.

Trump's backing of the deal marks a shift from the previous administration's stance, as former President Joe Biden had endorsed the transfer, while Trump had been perceived as opposed due to national security concerns.

As part of the deal, Britain has committed to pay Mauritius £9 billion over 99 years to maintain operations at the Diego Garcia base.

Starmer emphasized the significance of these discussions for the future of the British military base, especially in light of international court rulings favoring Mauritius's claim to the islands.

Mauritius was compelled to cede the Chagos Islands in exchange for independence, leading to the forced relocation of the Chagossians, which remains a contentious issue.

Despite the controversies, Trump expressed optimism about the negotiations, stating he believes the discussions will yield positive results.

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy warned that if Trump opposes the agreement, it could jeopardize the entire deal due to the shared military and intelligence interests between the UK and the US.

Lammy also highlighted Trump's considerable influence over the deal, noting that his approval acts as a de facto veto given the US's joint use of Diego Garcia.

Trump's endorsement of the plan has raised concerns among some Republican Party members and allies in Britain, who fear it may negatively impact US military interests and exacerbate China's influence in the region.

Senator John Kennedy has voiced strong opposition to the handover, arguing it could harm U.S. military interests and align with anti-British sentiments from international bodies.

The Chagos Islands have been under UK control since Mauritius gained independence in 1968, a situation complicated by the forced deportation of islanders for the establishment of the Diego Garcia base.