The UK and the US are coordinating a strategic course regarding the base in the Indian Ocean

London and Washington are taking urgent diplomatic steps to stabilize relations surrounding one of the key military outposts of the Western alliance. The situation concerning Diego Garcia and its territories requires a reassessment of both countries’ positions amid the changing geopolitical landscape.

Phone talks between the Prime Minister and the President

This week, an important contact took place between UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and US President Donald Trump. The main topic of discussion was the future of the joint military base located on the Chagos Archipelago in the Indian Ocean. According to sources from financial analytics firm Jin10, the conversation was direct and businesslike, reflecting an urgent need to reach mutual understanding between the two nations.

Disagreements over Mauritius sovereignty

The main source of tension is the US position on restoring sovereignty over the territories to Mauritius. While the Trump administration previously supported the idea of transferring the archipelago, last month there was a sharp shift in stance. The president publicly condemned the plan, calling it a display of diplomatic weakness and an unjustified decision. This unexpected change in position has created some tension in the relations between London and Washington.

According to the initial agreement, the UK planned to transfer control of the Chagos Archipelago to Mauritius, while maintaining the ability to operate the Diego Garcia military base through regular payments. The island is located approximately 2,000 miles from the East African coast and is critically important for regional defense operations.

Strategic importance of the base and the need for cooperation

After the phone call, both sides issued a joint statement emphasizing their awareness of the strategic importance of the military presence on the island. Leaders acknowledged that Diego Garcia plays a crucial role in ensuring regional stability and protecting the interests of the Western alliance. The UK and US expressed their readiness to continue intensive cooperation aimed at ensuring the long-term operational stability of the base.

Prospects for dialogue between partners

Both sides agreed to maintain regular contact and to resume negotiations soon to discuss the details of the agreement. The current situation demonstrates how important it is for the UK to maintain close cooperation with its American partner, despite temporary differences in views on certain aspects of foreign policy. Restoring consensus on the Diego Garcia issue will be an important signal of the strength of the Anglo-American alliance amid increasing geopolitical competition.