UK Prime Minister Starmer and Trump discussed the status of the military base in the Indian Ocean

Kier Starmer held important talks with U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the growing disagreements over the strategic military base on Diego Garcia Island. According to the official meeting summary, both leaders recognized the critical importance of this military facility for the security of both countries and confirmed their intention to strengthen cooperation in ensuring its operational activity.

Unexpected Shift in Trump’s Position Creates Tension

The current negotiations are taking place against the backdrop of a significant cooling of relations between London and Washington. In recent weeks, the U.S. president dramatically changed his stance, criticizing the plan to transfer sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago, which includes the Diego Garcia strategic base, to Mauritius. This decision was a complete surprise, considering that the American leader had previously supported this initiative.

Trump called the proposal “an act of weakness” and “an extremely unwise decision,” which caused serious irritation in British political circles. The UK Prime Minister had to coordinate urgent talks to restore mutual understanding on this critically important issue.

Historical Context of Disputes Over the Main Military Territory

The agreement between the two countries stipulates that the UK will transfer control of the Chagos Archipelago to Mauritius on the condition that British-American operational control over the base is maintained. In exchange, Mauritius will receive annual financial compensation from both partners. Diego Garcia, located approximately 2,000 nautical miles from the East African coast, serves as a key outpost for projecting American and British military power in the Indian Ocean.

This archipelago has strategic significance for controlling maritime routes and ensuring stability in the region. The deployment of modern aviation, reconnaissance systems, and maritime infrastructure on Diego Garcia allows both countries to respond quickly to challenges in one of the most unstable regions in the world.

Prospects for Restoring Consensus Between Partners

According to the published communiqué, the UK Prime Minister and the American president agreed to continue close dialogue on this issue with plans for new contacts in the near future. This indicates both sides’ desire to overcome the disagreements that have arisen and to find a mutually acceptable solution that will preserve military cooperation and strategic partnership.

The future of one of the most important Western military positions in the Indian Ocean remains a focus of diplomatic efforts by both administrations.