Published：Jun 7, 17:45Last updated：Jun 8, 22:45

US Eyes Purchase of Chagos Archipelago

Jun. 7, 2026 17:45

The US is reportedly exploring the possibility of purchasing the Chagos Archipelago, home to the UK-US Diego Garcia military base. The plan could disrupt British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's proposal to transfer sovereignty to Mauritius. Discussions about securing the base's future are ongoing between Washington and London. The move reflects strategic interests in the Indian Ocean region.

Summarized

8News

7Media

Jun. 8, 2026 17:00

Donald Trump has reportedly considered buying the disputed Chagos Islands, sparking backlash. Critics assert the islands are not for sale, as Keir Starmer plans to transfer them to Mauritius. The controversy underscores geopolitical tensions over the territory.

Jun. 8, 2026 22:45

The UK's Daily Telegraph reported that US officials have drafted a plan to bypass the UK and directly negotiate with Mauritius to purchase the Chagos Islands. Mauritius has stated that it has not received any proposals from the US and reiterated that sovereignty over the islands is non-negotiable.

The United States is reportedly exploring the possibility of purchasing the Chagos Archipelago, home to the strategic Diego Garcia military base, amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. This move could disrupt British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's plans to transfer sovereignty to Mauritius and reflects Washington's strategic interests in the Indian Ocean region. Discussions between the US and UK are ongoing, with the US considering bypassing London to negotiate directly with Mauritius.RIA Novosti+2

🌍 Strategic Importance

The Chagos Archipelago, particularly the Diego Garcia base, has been a critical military installation for the US since 1966. It supports operations in regions like Yemen and Iran, making it indispensable for American strategic interests. The UK’s plan to transfer sovereignty to Mauritius has stalled, prompting the US to consider direct negotiations to secure the base’s future.CCTV+2

🏛️ Political Reactions

Former US President Donald Trump has reportedly criticized the UK’s plan to transfer sovereignty as "an act of great stupidity." Meanwhile, Mauritius has reiterated that sovereignty over the islands is non-negotiable, adding complexity to the US’s potential purchase plans. The controversy has sparked backlash, with critics asserting that the islands are not for sale.The Guardian+2

🤝 Diplomatic Maneuvering

The US is considering bypassing the UK to negotiate directly with Mauritius, aiming to maintain control over Diego Garcia. This move sidelines British involvement and underscores Washington’s determination to secure its strategic assets. However, Mauritius has stated that it has not received any formal proposals from the US, complicating the diplomatic landscape.CCTV+2

🔮 Future Implications

The potential purchase of the Chagos Archipelago by the US could reshape geopolitical dynamics in the Indian Ocean. It highlights the ongoing struggle for control over strategic territories and the complexities of international diplomacy. The outcome of these negotiations will have significant implications for US-UK relations and regional stability.RIA Novosti+2

MauritiusDiego GarciaDonald TrumpKeir StarmerChagos Archipelago