Trump Describes UK Chagos Island Deal as 'Great Stupidity' Amid Greenland Dispute
The Spin
Pro-Trump narrative
The U.K.'s handing over of Diego Garcia to Mauritius was a foolish decision, no doubt seen by countries like China and Russia as a sign of total weakness. Britain's sorry saga is clear evidence of why the U.S. must act from a position of strength and acquire Greenland to ensure that America's national security is secured.
Left narrative
The long-awaited deal on the Chagos Islands was reached because a number of international court decisions ruled that Britain's presence on the island was contrary to law. The absence of a deal would have restricted the base's operational effectiveness, and by securing an agreement — which was welcomed by all Five Eyes allies, including the U.S. — the U.K. has been able to legally guarantee its presence there for generations to come.
Right narrative
President Trump is right that the decision to throw away the Chagos Islands was an act of stupidity and self-sabotage. Though the needless degradation of Britain's security is no justification for an unlawful seizure of Greenland, Trump's intervention does give Starmer the chance to finally change course over Chagos before it is too late.
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