Trump cites UK’s ‘stupidity’ over Chagos Islands as reason to take over Greenland

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Jessica Elgot Deputy political editorJanuary 20, 2026 at 08:51 AM

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Donald Trump cited the UK's decision to cede the Chagos Islands to Mauritius as a reason for the US to acquire Greenland. Trump criticized the UK's move as "stupidity" and a sign of weakness, particularly regarding Diego Garcia, the site of a US military base. The UK has a £3.4bn agreement to cede sovereignty over the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, while leasing Diego Garcia back for 99 years for a joint US-UK military base. The agreement faces opposition in the UK, with some citing US concerns and national security as reasons to deny the deal. Trump's comments have fueled criticism of the handover, with some UK politicians echoing his concerns about national security.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Nigel Farage 35% China 40% Priti Patel 40% Russia 40% Denmark 50% Diego Garcia ×260% United States ×270% Mauritius ×470% Greenland ×475% UK ×480% Chagos Islands ×585% Donald Trump ×590%

Keywords

chagos islands 100% greenland acquisition 90% us-uk relations 70% diego garcia 70% mauritius 60% national security 60% international relations 50% donald trump 50% military base 40%