**Trump Administration Expected to Oppose UK-Chagos Agreement, Says Farage**

UK officials express confidence in security measures within the deal, emphasizing the strategic importance of Diego Garcia.

In a recent discussion in Parliament, Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK and a close associate of Donald Trump, indicated that the Trump administration would likely respond with “outright hostility” to the United Kingdom’s agreement to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. This assertion raises concerns about potential friction between the UK and the United States, particularly as the agreement may exacerbate fears of increasing Chinese influence in the strategic region.

The controversial deal involves the UK ceding sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, known formally as the British Indian Ocean Territory, while maintaining control over the critical US-UK military base located on Diego Garcia for an initial period of 99 years. While the UK government argues that the deal will provide legal clarity following international judgments favoring Mauritius's sovereignty claims, critics warn that it could jeopardize regional security by enhancing China’s position.

Farage voiced his apprehensions during the Commons meeting, stating that finalizing the deal prior to the US presidential election was a “significant mistake,” citing insights gained through engagements in America post-election. He referenced connections with individuals expected to sit in key positions in the incoming Trump administration, including defense secretary Pete Hegseth and national security adviser Michael Waltz, both of whom have previously expressed concerns about the implications of UK actions for US strategic interests.

In response, Foreign Office minister Stephen Doughty defended the decision, articulating that the legal uncertainties surrounding the Chagos Islands threatened the operational integrity of the military base at Diego Garcia. He expressed confidence that comprehensive briefings on the deal would mitigate potential concerns from the Trump administration, emphasizing widespread support for the agreement across the US security establishment.

Despite Doughty’s reassurances, several British politicians, including former government officials, have raised alarms about the implications of the agreement, describing it as a surrender of a crucial strategic asset. Those opposing the deal argue that it could weaken the UK's security posture in the Indian Ocean and complicate relations with a vital ally. The ongoing dialogue underscores the complex interplay between international relations, national interests, and regional security considerations.