Washington, Jan 21 (NationPress) US President Donald Trump expressed his strong opposition to a British initiative aimed at transferring control of the Diego Garcia military base to Mauritius and subsequently leasing it back. He questioned the rationale behind London relinquishing what he deemed a vital strategic asset.

During a media briefing at the White House commemorating one year since his return to office, Trump voiced his disapproval of the proposed arrangement concerning Diego Garcia, a joint military facility operated by the US and UK in the Indian Ocean. “I’m against that,” he stated, emphasizing that the region was “a reasonably important area of the globe.”

Trump highlighted that earlier conversations seemed to indicate continued ownership, but argued that the current proposal resembled a lease-and-sale model. “Initially, they were discussing some notion of ownership,” he noted. “Now they’re essentially looking to do a lease and sell it, which I oppose.”

He also questioned Britain's motives, stating, “I don’t know why they’re doing it. Do they need money?”

While differentiating the base from Greenland, Trump underscored its significance for security. Although he did not specify any actions Washington might undertake, he made his opposition to the proposal clear.

The plan involves the UK, Mauritius, and the future of the British Indian Ocean Territory, which includes Diego Garcia. This base supports a major US military facility utilized for air and naval operations across the Middle East, Africa, and the Indo-Pacific.

Trump's comments were made amidst discussions on various strategic matters, including Greenland. When asked about his plans there, he cryptically replied, “You’ll find out,” suggesting potential tariffs or other measures. His stance on Diego Garcia was more pronounced, reflecting his clear opposition.

Although he did not mention India, the base's strategic location near essential sea routes places it within the broader Indo-Pacific context. The facility has historically been regarded as a cornerstone of US and allied military presence in the Indian Ocean.

Trump announced he would be traveling to Davos for a series of meetings, without specifying whether the base's status would be a topic of discussion with allies.

Security officials and regional stakeholders are likely to monitor these comments closely. Any alteration in the status of Diego Garcia could have significant implications for military strategy and the balance of power in the Indian Ocean.