In a significant development, the Pentagon has stripped former General Mark Milley of his security detail and clearance, a move initiated by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. This decision follows Milley’s vocal criticism of former President Trump, including remarks labeling him a "fascist." The revocation is part of broader retaliatory actions from the Trump administration towards figures who have openly opposed or criticized the former president.
General Milley Faces Security Revocation Amid Trump Administration Changes
General Milley Faces Security Revocation Amid Trump Administration Changes
The Pentagon has withdrawn security clearance and detail from former General Mark Milley after he criticized President Trump, who is now revoking protections for several former officials.
The Pentagon has officially revoked the security detail and clearance for former General Mark Milley, a significant figure during Donald Trump's presidency who has openly criticized him. Newly appointed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered this action as part of his mandate, instructing officials to investigate Milley’s past conduct and assess his military grade.
Gen Milley, who served as the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff during Trump’s first term, has not shied away from expressing his disapproval of the former president, famously branding Trump as a "fascist" in Bob Woodward's book "War." Following the rioting by Trump supporters at the Capitol in January 2021, he had also been accused by Trump of treason, specifically for phone conversations with his Chinese counterpart in which he assured them of U.S. stability.
Alongside the security revocations, Trump has also rescinded protections for several other former officials he has clashed with, notably former health official Anthony Fauci. Prior to Trump's recent return to the presidency, outgoing President Joe Biden preemptively pardoned Gen Milley and others, including Fauci, amid concerns of potential retaliation.
Gen Milley expressed gratitude to Biden for the preemptive pardon, voicing his desire to avoid the distraction and anxiety that could arise from conflict with Trump's administration. The Pentagon's Office of Inspector General has been tasked with reviewing Milley's conduct further to determine the need for a reevaluation of his military status.
Additionally, Trump's administration has removed a portrait of Milley from the Pentagon, signifying a break with the former general who had been seen as one of the top military leaders during Trump's initial term. As the political landscape in the U.S. continues to shift, the implications of these actions are yet to unfold, raising questions about accountability and the dynamics of military and political leadership in the country.
