The US government has officially supported the UK's intention to transfer the Chagos Islands to Mauritius while leasing an important military base back. In a statement, the US Department of State expressed its backing for the UK's agreement with Mauritius regarding the Chagos archipelago. This news is likely a relief for the UK government after US President Donald Trump's changing views on the matter, which shifted from calling it an "act of great stupidity" to saying it was the "best" deal the prime minister could achieve. The announcement arrives just before scheduled discussions between the US and Mauritius next week. The US Department of State emphasized its desire for guaranteed "continued use" of the military base located on Diego Garcia, the largest island in the archipelago, which is utilized by both the UK and US armed forces. According to the new agreement, the UK will lease Diego Garcia for 99 years. The continuation of the military base is said to support "US national security" and enhance "security and stability across the Indian Ocean," as stated by the US Department of State. Previously, the US indicated it would support the £3.4bn ($4.6bn) deal that the UK signed in May. At that time, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the US "welcomed" the agreement, although Trump later criticized the plan in a post on Truth Social last month, calling it "an act of great stupidity."
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