Trump Criticizes UK Lease Deal with Starmer on Truth Social

February 18, 2026 Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor Entertainment

Former U.S. President Donald Trump criticized a plan by UK Labour Party leader Keir Starmer to potentially relinquish British ownership of the Chagos Islands, including the Diego Garcia atoll, posting his objections Wednesday on his Truth Social platform.

“I have been telling Prime Minister Keir Starmer, of the United Kingdom, that Leases are no good when it comes to Countries, and that he is making a huge mistake by entering a 100 Year Lease…” Trump wrote. The post did not elaborate on the specific details of the proposed lease, but referenced his prior conversations with Starmer.

The Chagos Islands, a British Overseas Territory, have been at the center of a decades-long dispute with Mauritius, which claims sovereignty over the archipelago. The United States maintains a significant military presence on Diego Garcia, a key strategic location. Starmer has indicated a willingness to negotiate the future of the islands with Mauritius, potentially including a long-term lease arrangement.

Trump’s intervention comes after the U.S. State Department signaled its support for a resolution to the Chagos Islands dispute, a move that appeared to pave the way for negotiations between the UK and Mauritius. According to reports, the U.S. Backed the UK’s intention to eventually return the islands to Mauritius, but only after assurances regarding the continued operation of the military base on Diego Garcia.

The Financial Times reported that Trump’s renewed attack on Starmer’s plan represents a reversal of the previously supportive stance from the U.S. Administration. Politico.eu noted the timing of Trump’s post, occurring hours after the U.S. Had indicated its backing for a deal.

The BBC reported that Starmer’s proposal involves ceding ownership of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, while securing a long-term lease for the U.S. To continue operating its military facility on Diego Garcia. The lease would be intended to ensure the continued strategic importance of the base for both the U.S. And the UK.