The Pentagon has revoked the security detail and clearance of retired General Mark Milley, a former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. This decision follows recent events surrounding Milley's controversial actions and statements during his tenure under President Donald Trump's administration. The move comes in light of accusations against Milley, including allegations of treason by Trump, stemming from phone calls Milley held with his Chinese counterpart in the final weeks of Trump's first presidency. These calls were reportedly made to reassure China that the United States would not launch a nuclear strike, and were coordinated with other defense secretaries.
In Bob Woodward's book "War," Milley described Trump as "fascist to the core" and "the most dangerous person to this country." The remarks and his actions during the Capitol riot by Trump's supporters in 2021 have placed him at the center of intense scrutiny. Outgoing President Joe Biden issued a pre-emptive pardon for Milley ahead of Trump's return to the White House last week, a gesture of protection against potential retribution from Trump.
Gen Milley's tenure as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff was marked by significant tension with Trump, who had nominated him for the position. In 2023, Milley made a pointed remark in his final speech, stating that the military did not take an oath to a "wannabe dictator," which many interpreted as a reference to Trump. This comment further exemplifies the fraught relationship between Milley and the former president.
Alongside Milley, Trump's new administration has also withdrawn security protections for former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, former National Security Adviser John Bolton, and former Iran envoy Brian Hook. These revocations reflect ongoing political shifts and alignments within the administration.
Gen Milley expressed gratitude towards President Biden for the pardon, stating that he did not wish to spend his life "fighting those who unjustly might seek retribution for perceived slights." Meanwhile, the defense department's new chief of staff, Pete Hegseth, criticized Milley's actions, stating:
"Undermining the chain of command is corrosive to our national security."
In addition to losing his security clearance, Milley's portrait as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff was removed from the Pentagon by officials following Trump's second inauguration. These actions underscore the deep divisions within the political and military landscape under Trump's leadership.
Donald Trump has been vociferous in his criticism of Milley, previously accusing him of treason for his communications with China. Trump opined that such actions warranted severe consequences, stating:
"An act so egregious that, in times gone by, the punishment would have been DEATH!"
Leave a Reply