Strategic US Military and National Security Concerns

The USA and the free world must maintain its strategic strongholds if it wishes to remain free. This situation is about much more than just territorial negotiations; it's about safeguarding global stability against authoritarian influence. Here’s what I and others believe needs to be done on the Chagos Islands Deal:

·  This is a major geopolitical blunder by the UK.

• By ceding sovereignty to Mauritius—a country with increasing ties to China—Britain risks handing Beijing an indirect foothold in the Indian Ocean.
• If the UK truly wanted to correct historical injustices, it should have ensured that the Chagossians themselves, not Mauritius, were granted sovereignty.

·  The deal is not in America’s or the West’s best interest.

• The base on Diego Garcia is one of the most strategically important US military assets—losing any control over its future weakens Western military power.
• China's influence in Africa and the Indian Ocean is rapidly expanding. If this deal moves forward, we could see China-backed infrastructure or even a military presence in the Chagos Islands within a few years.

·  The UK is showing weakness, and Trump’s administration must step in.

• Biden’s approval of the deal was shortsighted. If Trump lets it stand, he risks allowing another Chinese-aligned state to dictate terms over a vital Western military base.
• This is a test of the US-UK "Special Relationship"—Trump must make it clear that weakness in geopolitics has consequences.

Suggestions for the Free World to Remain Free

1. Trump should put the deal on hold indefinitely.
• This must be re-evaluated with a national security-first approach.
• The UK should not be allowed to negotiate military strategy without full American alignment.
2. The Chagossians should be given a say, not Mauritius.
• Britain evicted them, so the proper solution is to allow Chagossians to return and hold a referendum on sovereignty.
• If they wish to remain under UK protection while allowing the US base to continue, this should be pursued.
3. The US should secure a new long-term lease directly with the UK.
• The lease should be extended for another 99 years to prevent future diplomatic maneuvering.
• US forces should remain in control of Diego Garcia permanently, ensuring that no external government can interfere.
4. A broader Western Indo-Pacific strategy must be established.
• China is expanding its presence through debt-trap diplomacy and port acquisitions. The US, UK, and allies must counter this with a coordinated security and economic response.
• A military presence in Diego Garcia is not enough—the West should invest in stronger naval coordination across the Indian Ocean.

Conclusion: 

This is a Battle for Freedom, and the West Cannot Afford to Lose

If the West allows a slow but steady surrender of strategic locations, we risk waking up to a world where China has gained control over vital military and trade routes. The free world must act proactively, not reactively.

Trump has a golden opportunity to reverse a dangerous mistake made under Biden. The question is—will he take it?