Introduction A major diplomatic storm has erupted over the tiny but strategically vital island of Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean. On January 21, 2026, US President Donald Trump publicly attacked the United Kingdom’s decision to hand over the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands (which includes Diego Garcia) to Mauritius. Calling the deal an “act of great stupidity,” Trump’s statement has created confusion about the future of this critical military base. For India, situated just north of these islands, this development is crucial as it affects the balance of power in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
The Core Issue: What is Happening?
The controversy revolves around a historic agreement signed between the UK and Mauritius in 2025.
- The Deal: After decades of legal battles, the UK agreed to transfer the ownership (sovereignty) of the Chagos Archipelago to Mauritius.
- The Condition: In return, Mauritius agreed to let the UK and US keep their joint military base on the largest island, Diego Garcia, for an initial period of 99 years.
- The Conflict: While the UK government claims this deal saves the base from illegal occupation claims, President Trump has now openly opposed it, questioning why the UK is “giving away” such a valuable asset.
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Trump’s “Great Stupidity” Remark
Taking to social media on Tuesday, President Trump criticized the UK’s Labour government led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
- His Argument: Trump argued that Diego Garcia is a “vital US Military Base” and giving up control shows “total weakness” to rivals like China and Russia.
- Greenland Connection: Interestingly, he linked this issue to his desire to buy Greenland, stating that the UK’s move is another reason why the US needs to acquire more secure territories.
- Reversal of Stance: This comment shocked many because the previous US administration had actually supported the deal, calling it a way to legally secure the base’s future.
Why is Diego Garcia So Important?
Diego Garcia is often called an “unsinkable aircraft carrier.”
- Location: It is located in the middle of the Indian Ocean, south of the Maldives and India.
- Military Power: It houses long-range bombers, submarines, and deep-space tracking systems. It played a key role in US operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.
- China Factor: For the US and its allies (including India), this base is essential to monitor China’s growing naval presence in the Indian Ocean.
India’s Stake: Why Should We Care?
India has a unique position in this dispute.
- Support for Mauritius: Historically, India has supported Mauritius in its fight against colonial rule. India voted in favor of Mauritius at the UN, arguing that the Chagos Islands belonged to them.
- Security Concerns: While India supports Mauritius politically, it also needs the US-UK presence in Diego Garcia to check Chinese influence. A Chinese base in this region would be a direct threat to India’s southern coast.
- The Agaléga Factor: India has built its own airstrip and jetty on the Agaléga Islands (part of Mauritius), strengthening its own maritime security net.
What Happens Next?
The UK government is currently passing the “Diego Garcia Military Base Bill” in its Parliament to finalize the treaty.
- UK’s Defense: UK officials state that without this treaty, international courts could force them to leave the island entirely, which would be a disaster for security.
- Uncertainty: With Trump now opposing the deal, it is unclear if the US will try to block the transfer or demand new terms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where is Diego Garcia located?
Diego Garcia is the largest island of the Chagos Archipelago, located in the central Indian Ocean, roughly 1,796 km southwest of the southern tip of India.
2. Why does Mauritius want the Chagos Islands?
Mauritius claims the islands were illegally separated from its territory by the UK in 1965, just before Mauritius gained independence. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled in 2019 that the islands belong to Mauritius.
3. Is the US military leaving Diego Garcia?
No. Even under the new UK-Mauritius deal, the US military base is allowed to stay for at least another 99 years.
4. How does this affect India?
India benefits from the deal because it strengthens ties with Mauritius (a key ally) while ensuring the US military remains in the region to counter China.
5. What was Trump’s reaction to the deal?
President Trump called the deal “weak” and “stupid,” expressing fear that giving sovereignty to Mauritius might allow China to gain influence in the future.