
Pentagon launches investigation into General Mark Milley, potentially jeopardizing his military career and retirement credentials.
Quick Takes
- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth revokes Gen. Mark Milley’s security clearance and detail
- Investigation ordered to determine if Milley disrupted chain of command
- Milley’s portraits removed from Pentagon amid controversy
- Scrutiny follows allegations of unauthorized communications with Chinese counterparts
Pentagon Launches Investigation into General Milley
In a significant development, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has initiated a comprehensive investigation into retired General Mark Milley, former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. This probe could have far-reaching implications for Milley’s military career and retirement status. The investigation comes in the wake of allegations that Milley engaged in unauthorized communications with Chinese counterparts during his tenure, potentially bypassing President Trump.
The Pentagon’s actions against Milley are multifaceted. Hegseth has revoked Milley’s security clearance and canceled his security detail, which he had retained due to ongoing Iranian threats related to the 2020 drone strike on Gen. Qasem Soleimani. Furthermore, the Defense Department’s Inspector General has been directed to review whether Milley should be demoted in rank for allegedly undermining the chain of command during Trump’s first term.
🚨MASSIVE BREAKING:
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has REVOKED General Mark Milley's security detail and security clearance.
Hegseth is now planning on DEMOTING the General.
Hegseth also ordered the removal of all Pentagon portraits of Milley.
Total Humiliation pic.twitter.com/ZtKpzyw2n9
— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) January 28, 2025
Accountability and National Security Concerns
The Pentagon’s chief of staff, Joe Kasper, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “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.”
The investigation will delve into Milley’s conduct, particularly focusing on his calls to Chinese Gen. Li Zuocheng. These calls, reportedly made to assure China of U.S. stability and non-aggression, have been a point of contention, with Trump claiming he was not informed about them. The controversy has led to Trump suggesting that Milley’s actions could be considered treasonous.
Removal of Milley’s Portraits and Broader Implications
In a symbolic move, portraits of Milley have been removed from the Pentagon. This includes his chairman portrait, which was taken down shortly after Trump’s inauguration, and another portrait in the Pentagon’s Marshall Corridor. These actions, coupled with the ongoing investigation, signal a significant shift in the treatment of high-ranking military officials post-service.
“The inspector general review will include “an inquiry into the facts and circumstances surrounding Gen Milley’s conduct so that the Secretary may determine whether it is appropriate to reopen his military grade review determination,” said Pentagon spokesman John Ullyot.
Milley’s case is not isolated. He is the fourth former Trump appointee to lose security detail and clearance, following Mike Pompeo, John Bolton, and Brian Hook. This trend suggests a broader review of security protocols for former high-ranking officials, especially those who have been critical of the administration or involved in controversial decisions.
Ongoing Tensions and Unresolved Questions
The relationship between Milley and Trump has been fraught with tension, exacerbated by Milley’s public criticisms of the former president. These criticisms, including derogatory comments reported in Bob Woodward’s book, have likely contributed to the current scrutiny. As the investigation unfolds, questions remain about the long-term impact on Milley’s legacy and the precedent this sets for civil-military relations.
As of now, the Pentagon has not officially commented on these developments, leaving room for speculation and debate about the motivations behind the investigation and its potential outcomes. The situation continues to evolve, with significant implications for military protocol, national security, and the delicate balance between civilian leadership and military authority.