Pentagon withdraws security measures and initiates review against retired Gen. Milley

 January 29, 2025

Major developments in the Pentagon have surfaced as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth implements significant measures against retired General Mark Milley.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is setting a new precedent by removing retired Gen. Mark Milley’s security detail and security clearance, and potentially downgrading his military rank, Fox News reported.

Secretary Hegseth will soon announce the immediate cessation of both the security detail and security clearance previously provided to Gen. Milley. This decision follows amid broader concerns over actions taken during his service under the Trump administration.

New Accountability Measures Under President Trump's Leadership

The review of Gen. Milley's actions, particularly his communications with Chinese military officials, is being led by the new acting Inspector General. This assessment could lead to a demotion for Gen. Milley, highlighting a stringent approach toward military discipline and ethics.

Furthermore, officials have visibly altered notable symbols of Milley’s tenure; they have removed two portraits of him from significant locations within the Pentagon, signaling a clear distancing from his legacy.

Beyond the Pentagon's halls, the ramifications of these actions extend into broader discussions about the intersection of military protocol and political oversight. Gen. Milley, who served as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff from 2019 to 2023, has been a polarizing figure, especially noted in Bob Woodward’s recent book "War" where he expressed severe concerns over former President Donald Trump's mental stability.

Repercussions and Pardons in Political and Military Circles

This scrutiny follows Gen. Milley’s proactive stance during tense geopolitical moments, specifically his reassurance to China about the U.S.'s non-aggressive intentions, reported amidst worries of unexpected military tensions during Trump's presidency.

Despite his controversial actions, President Donald Trump has acknowledged Milley’s effective leadership in specific military operations, including the strike against ISIS leadership in October 2019. President Joe Biden further complicated perceptions of Milley’s career by issuing a pardon before leaving office, reflecting mixed views on his actions.

In the context of extreme political tension, Gen. Mark Milley described President Trump in stark terms: "fascist to the core!" His concerns about the potential misuse of nuclear weapons were profound indicators of underlying tensions within the administration.

A senior administration official emphasized the current administration's commitment to accountability, stating, "There is a new era of accountability in the Defense Department under President Trump's leadership—and that's exactly what the American people expect."

Consequences and Changes in Military Leadership

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has made the decision to revoke Gen. Milley’s security privileges and initiate a review of his rank, which might set a new standard for how senior military leaders are treated after their service, especially in politically sensitive roles.

These developments stem from prior security concerns for Milley, which arose from threats after his involvement in the decision for a drone strike that killed Iranian General Qasem Soleimani in 2020. The removal of his portraits from the Army's Marshall Corridor and another prominent place further reflects a significant shift in his public and professional recognition.

The recent actions against retired Gen. Mark Milley by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth encapsulate a striking shift toward stringent accountability within the U.S. military leadership.

This move is significant not just for its immediate impact on Milley but also as a marker of broader policy changes under the revived Trump administration, impacting how military ethics and loyalty are evaluated and enforced at the highest levels.

About Victor Winston

Victor is a freelance writer and researcher who focuses on national politics, geopolitics, and economics.

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