Chagos deal stalled as Trump blocks progress, UK sees no path forward

The Chagos Islands deal remains stalled indefinitely due to US President Donald Trump's opposition, with UK officials seeing no signs it can be adapted to satisfy him. Trump called the plan "terrible" during a UN meeting, while Prime Minister Andy Burnham expressed confidence a solution could be found. The UK signed a treaty last year to transfer sovereignty of the islands to Mauritius while retaining control of the Diego Garcia military base under a 99-year lease. Defence Secretary Wes Streeting confirmed payments of at least £120m to Mauritius are on hold, as the deal cannot proceed without US support. Trump's objections center on the core sovereignty transfer, leaving no immediate path forward. UK officials stress a diplomatic solution remains necessary to secure the strategically vital Diego Garcia base, with efforts continuing despite the impasse.