In a bold statement from Washington, President Donald Trump has reaffirmed the United States’ unwavering commitment to its strategic military outpost on Diego Garcia. Posting on Truth Social, Trump declared that he will never allow threats to jeopardize American presence on the island, located in the heart of the Indian Ocean.
Trump highlighted a recent conversation with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer regarding the island’s status. ‘Diego Garcia is home to a major U.S. military base, strategically positioned in the Indian Ocean and vital to our national security,’ he wrote. The base has been pivotal in successful U.S. operations over the past year, thanks to its prime location, robust troop strength, and advanced equipment.
Addressing a contentious lease deal between the United Kingdom and Mauritius, Trump acknowledged Starmer’s position. ‘I understand the deal the Prime Minister has made, which many say is the best he could do,’ Trump noted. However, he issued a stark warning: if the agreement falters or endangers U.S. forces, America reserves the right to secure the base militarily.
‘No false claims or environmental nonsense will weaken our presence at such a critical base,’ Trump asserted firmly. The White House echoed this during a briefing, with Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt confirming Trump’s direct talks with Starmer and support for his stance, while emphasizing U.S. rights to protect its assets.
Leavitt stressed that the U.S. will not hesitate to defend its properties worldwide, including Diego Garcia, if necessary. This position underscores America’s resolve amid ongoing sovereignty debates involving the UK and Mauritius. As a cornerstone for operations in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia, Diego Garcia remains indispensable to U.S. power projection in the region.