Pentagon Revokes Security Clearance for Ex-General Milley Amid Trump Tensions

In a significant move by the Pentagon, retired General Mark Milley has had his security detail and clearance revoked, attributed to his vocal criticisms of former President Trump. This action comes as Trump returns to power and seeks to hold former officials accountable, raising questions about military loyalty and freedom of expression.

The Pentagon has taken the controversial step of revoking the security detail and clearance for retired General Mark Milley, a former high-ranking military officer who has been openly critical of ex-President Donald Trump. This measure was directed by newly appointed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and marks one of the first official actions of his administration. He ordered a review of Gen Milley's conduct and military grade.

Gen Milley, who once served as the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff during Trump's initial term, has not held back in sharing his perspective on his former boss, labeling him a "fascist." The repercussions of their strained relationship are becoming more evident as Trump re-establishes control and targets officials who publicly opposed him, similar to the security revocations previously enforced on notable figures like former health advisor Anthony Fauci.

The tensions between Trump and Milley escalated after Trump accused him of treason for communications he had with the Chinese military, allegedly to reassure them that the U.S. would not take aggressive military action following the Capitol riot in January 2021. Trump condemned Milley's actions on social media, suggesting that such behavior would have once warranted the death penalty. In his defense, Gen Milley clarified that his communications were coordinated with other defense leaders.

In Bob Woodward's recent publication, Milley was also quoted denouncing Trump as "fascist to the core" while he voiced concerns about Trump's influence over the military. During his last address as chairman of the joint chiefs, Milley maintained that the armed forces do not owe allegiance to a "wannabe dictator," widely seen as a reference to Trump himself.

The current Defense Department emphasizes that undermining the chain of command is harmful to national security. As Trump settles back in the White House, he is continuing his efforts to restore accountability within the military ranks, culminating in the decision to strip Milley of his security provisions.

Just prior to Trump's inauguration, former President Joe Biden preemptively pardoned Gen Milley, alongside others like Fauci, in a move intended to safeguard them from potential retaliatory actions by Trump. Milley expressed gratitude towards Biden, asserting his desire to avoid turmoil for his loved ones due to possible retribution.

Confirmation of the Pentagon’s decision regarding Milley's security arrangements was conveyed through a statement to CBS News. An inquiry into the circumstances surrounding Milley’s conduct has been initiated, determining the necessity of reopening his military grade review. Additionally, Trump’s administration has similarly rescinded security measures for former officials such as Mike Pompeo and John Bolton, indicating a broader trend of accountability for dissent within governmental ranks.

As this story unfolds, observers are left to question the implications of these decisions on military independence and the enduring political rivalries from the previous administration.