Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has made significant moves regarding former Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Mark Milley, indicating a shift in military conduct oversight. Hegseth, who commenced his role at the Pentagon on Monday, announced the revocation of Milley’s security detail and clearance. He has also ordered a thorough review of Milley’s conduct to assess whether his military rank should be reconsidered.
According to Pentagon spokesman John Ullyot, the Inspector General of the Defense Department has been directed to investigate the “facts and circumstances” surrounding Milley’s actions. While specific reasons for these measures were not disclosed, Defense Department Chief of Staff Joe Kasper emphasized, “Undermining the chain of command is corrosive to our national security, and restoring accountability is a priority for the Defense Department under President Trump’s leadership.”
Mark Milley served as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff under both Presidents Joe Biden and Donald Trump, often finding himself at odds with Trump on various issues. Notably, in 2020, he faced backlash for participating in a controversial photo-op with Trump outside a church after the suppression of protesters’ rights. Milley’s approach included reassurances to the Chinese military regarding U.S. intentions, amid concerns about potential conflicts.
Additionally, Milley’s involvement in the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan has been scrutinized, with military leaders pointing to advice given to President Biden suggesting a continued troop presence beyond the planned exit date. In a politically charged landscape, Milley received pre-emptive pardons from Biden aimed at shielding him from political repercussions as Trump’s administration began.
There has also been a notable physical manifestation of this changing tide; last week, a portrait of Milley was unexpectedly removed from the Pentagon, and the area where another of his portraits was displayed was quickly covered and painted over. This act adds to the growing scrutiny and the implications of a shifting defense leadership.
In summary, as the Pentagon undergoes a leadership transition, these developments highlight the ongoing evaluation of military conduct and the role of accountability in ensuring national security. The situation serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in military leadership and the balancing act between political pressures and the duties of service. This kind of reassessment could signal a move towards a more transparent and accountable military structure.