Washington, D.C. – The Pentagon said it is taking the personal security detail and security clearance away from former Joint Chiefs of Staff Chair Gen. Mark Milley and will conduct an investigation that may bring about a rank demotion for him. According to Tuesday night, this is following President Donald Trump’s fast decision to oust officials whom he believes are “enemies from within.”
Pentagon’s Action and Inquiry
Pentagon spokesman John Ullyot confirmed the revocation of Milley’s security privileges, citing an order from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Hegseth further ordered the Defense Department Inspector General to open an investigation into past conduct by Milley to determine whether a military-grade review should be reopened.
“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,” said Defense Department Chief of Staff Joe Kasper in an official Pentagon statement.
Background: Trump’s Longstanding Feud with Milley
Milley has been a frequent target of criticism from Trump. The former president once suggested Milley should face execution for treason following reports from The Atlantic that he had secretly communicated with his Chinese counterpart after the January 6th Capitol riot. Milley later defended his actions, stating they were meant to ensure stability and avoid any potential conflict.
During his retirement ceremony in 2023, Milley bluntly told troops, “Do not take an oath to a wannabe dictator.” In another interview for Bob Woodward’s book War, Milley characterized Trump as “fascist to the core.” These statements seal in more tension.
Political Fallout
Milley’s security revocation and possible military rank review are signs of the Trump administration’s aggressive approach to reshaping defense leadership. As soon as he took office, Trump began removing thousands of Biden-appointed officials and ordered Milley’s portrait removed from the Pentagon.
This decision is expected to generate considerable political debate. Critics view it as retaliatory, while Trump’s supporters support it as a step toward accountability in military leadership.
This may lead to further consequences for Milley, as it sets a precedent for how former military leaders are treated under Trump’s administration.
