The Pentagon's recent decision to remove security protections from retired General Mark Milley, a prominent military figure during the Trump administration, underscores a continuing political fallout between former President Donald Trump and former officials who have criticized him. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth initiated this action as part of a broader effort to restore what he calls accountability within the Department of Defense. Milley, who served as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has publicly criticized Trump, labeling him as "fascist" and raising alarms about Trump’s potential impact on national security during and after his presidency.
Pentagon Removes Security Protections for General Mark Milley
Pentagon Removes Security Protections for General Mark Milley
Retired Army General Mark Milley has been stripped of his security detail and clearance by the Pentagon, prompting an investigation into his conduct.
In a statement to CBS News, the Pentagon confirmed the revocation of Milley’s security detail and clearance. Hegseth's request for scrutiny into Milley's actions ties to allegations that he undermined the chain of command. This removal follows the trend seen with other former Trump officials like Anthony Fauci, indicating a shift in how the current administration handles perceived dissent.
Milley’s controversial phone calls with Chinese officials towards the end of Trump's presidency are also a focal point of scrutiny. While Trump accused Milley of treason for these communications, Milley contended that they were executed with the approval of defense secretaries to maintain stability and prevent miscommunication during a volatile political period, especially in the aftermath of the January 6 Capitol riot.
Amid this escalating tension, President Biden issued pre-emptive pardons to Milley and several others to protect them from potential retribution from Trump’s administration. Milley expressed gratitude for Biden’s action to shield him from further turmoil, illustrating the enduring effects of partisan divides in American political life and governance.
This latest move against Gen Milley reflects the ongoing struggle within U.S. defense and political arenas, as Trump and his allies continue to exert influence and challenge the legitimacy of past administration officials who voiced dissent against his leadership.
As the new Trump administration tightens its grip, the implications for U.S. national security policy and military leadership remain to be seen.
Milley’s controversial phone calls with Chinese officials towards the end of Trump's presidency are also a focal point of scrutiny. While Trump accused Milley of treason for these communications, Milley contended that they were executed with the approval of defense secretaries to maintain stability and prevent miscommunication during a volatile political period, especially in the aftermath of the January 6 Capitol riot.
Amid this escalating tension, President Biden issued pre-emptive pardons to Milley and several others to protect them from potential retribution from Trump’s administration. Milley expressed gratitude for Biden’s action to shield him from further turmoil, illustrating the enduring effects of partisan divides in American political life and governance.
This latest move against Gen Milley reflects the ongoing struggle within U.S. defense and political arenas, as Trump and his allies continue to exert influence and challenge the legitimacy of past administration officials who voiced dissent against his leadership.
As the new Trump administration tightens its grip, the implications for U.S. national security policy and military leadership remain to be seen.
