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MNN Global · January 20, 2026 · 1 min read

UK retains control of Chagos Islands base amid Trump criticism

What happened: The UK has maintained control over the Diego Garcia military base in the Chagos Islands through a deal with the US. Former President Trump has publicly criticised this arrangement.

Why it matters:

  • The deal affects UK-US military cooperation and strategic presence in the Indian Ocean.
  • It impacts the sovereignty claims and rights of the Chagos Islands' displaced inhabitants.

MNN Take: The UK-US agreement allows continued joint use of Diego Garcia for defence purposes, while disputes over sovereignty and resettlement remain unresolved.

Sources: BBC Politics