The Pentagon has announced significant changes regarding the security clearance and detail of General Mark Milley, the recently retired chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth informed Milley that his security clearance is being revoked and his security detail suspended. Pentagon spokesperson John Ullyot confirmed this decision late Tuesday.
In addition, Hegseth has instructed the Defense Department’s Office of Inspector General to investigate Milley’s conduct, which will assess whether his security clearance should ultimately be restored. The Office of Inspector General has confirmed receipt of this request and is currently reviewing the situation.
These developments come in the context of Milley’s contentious relationship with former President Donald Trump. Notably, Trump accused Milley of treason in response to calls Milley made to his Chinese counterpart during Trump’s presidency, which he claimed were made to reassure China about U.S. intentions. Milley defended his actions as part of his official duties.
The Defense Department emphasized the importance of accountability, stating that undermining the chain of command could compromise national security. Joe Kasper, the department’s chief of staff, reinforced this message, asserting the need for restoring accountability under Trump’s leadership.
New reporting highlights a pattern of actions taken by Trump against individuals perceived as political adversaries, similar to previous mass revocations of security clearances during his administration. These earlier actions included revoking the clearances of 50 former intelligence officials accused of undermining Trump.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt remarked that Trump does not believe individuals like Milley and former national security advisor John Bolton should retain security clearances funded by taxpayers indefinitely. Instead, she noted that they are financially capable of securing their own private protection if desired.
As tensions continue, it’s worth mentioning that Milley received a preemptive pardon from then-President Biden shortly before leaving office, alongside several other historical figures who faced backlash from Trump. Milley has expressed gratitude for the pardon, stating he prefers not to engage in conflict over perceived injustices.
While this situation is fraught with political implications, it reflects broader concerns about accountability and national security within the Defense Department. The investigation into Milley’s conduct may reveal important insights into the Pentagon’s stance on leadership accountability and the preservation of military integrity.
In summary, the fallout from Trump’s presidency continues to shape the U.S. military’s leadership landscape, posing questions regarding the intersection of politics and national security. The hope is that these discussions may ultimately lead to a stronger and more accountable military structure moving forward.