Official statements from the US government or credible news sources

Starmer Rushes Chagos Islands Deal Amid Mauritius Reservations and US Opposition

Nov 27, 2024, 10:02 PM

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is attempting to expedite a treaty to hand over control of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius before Donald Trump assumes the US presidency on January 20, 2025. The move comes amid concerns that Trump might oppose the agreement. The deal, initially agreed upon by Starmer, is now facing potential collapse due to reservations from the newly elected president of Mauritius and opposition from the US. Multiple sources have confirmed that Starmer is pushing for the initial agreement to be converted into a signed legal text before Trump's inauguration, fearing his potential opposition. Critics argue that the deal threatens Britain's strategic interests.