Trump ‘could buy the Chagos Islands’ after row with Starmer

WorldPolitics
8 Jun 2026 • 3:55 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Trump ‘could buy the Chagos Islands’ after row with Starmer

  • The White House is reportedly considering a plan for the U.S. to purchase the Chagos Islands, following the president's unsuccessful attempt to acquire Greenland.
  • This alleged plan emerges amidst delays in U.K. legislation to cede the territory to Mauritius, a move the president previously criticised as 'an act of GREAT STUPIDITY'.
  • Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent reportedly presented the idea of buying the islands, which include the strategically vital Diego Garcia military base, to the president.
  • A U.S. official stated that the administration believes it would be a mistake for the U.K. to relinquish the British Indian Ocean Territory, emphasising Diego Garcia's indispensable military importance.
  • The president's foreign policy has recently focused on territorial acquisitions, with the Chagos Islands, like Greenland, viewed as a crucial military asset due to existing U.S. military bases.

IN FULL

Newswav Malaysia Best News App

Newswav is an online content aggregator and obtains its content from different online sources. The content in the app do not belong to Newswav nor do they reflect the opinions of Newswav and its staff. Your use of this app indicates your understanding and acceptance of this information.

Newswav Sdn. Bhd. (201701008480 (1222645-M)) 2026 All Rights Reserved