US intelligence agencies disagree with Trump’s opposition to Chagos deal, says Starmer

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 4 min read 100% complete by Pippa Crerar in BeijingJanuary 28, 2026 at 06:00 PM

AI Summary

medium article 4 min

Keir Starmer stated that US intelligence agencies disagree with Donald Trump's recent opposition to the Chagos deal, despite Trump calling it an "act of great stupidity." Starmer emphasized that the US administration previously supported the deal, recognizing its importance to their defenses. Downing Street sources claim the agreement, formally approved by Starmer and his Mauritian counterpart last May, remains a "done deal" and that they have received no indication of a change of heart from the US Department of State or intelligence agencies. They suggest Trump's reversal is linked to his interest in acquiring Greenland. Starmer noted the Trump administration conducted an agency-level review of the Chagos deal before expressing clear support for it. Trump's opposition emerged recently, with him suggesting the Chagos Islands decision influenced his desire to acquire Greenland.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

White House 30% Marco Rubio 30% Beijing 30% US Department of State 40% Greenland ×250% Mauritius ×250% UK ×260% US intelligence agencies ×270% Chagos Islands ×570% United States ×470% Keir Starmer ×480% Donald Trump ×790%

Keywords

chagos deal 100% us intelligence agencies 80% donald trump 70% uk national security 60% us administration 60% keir starmer 50% mauritius 50% strategic importance 50% greenland 40%