Former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Mark Milley, faces significant repercussions as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth plans to revoke his security detail and clearance. This decision, expected to be announced today, January 30, 2025, follows directives for the Pentagon's acting investigator general to assess whether Milley should be demoted.
Despite having retired from the Army back in September 2023, Milley continues to be entitled to Secret Service protection. This security was largely due to threats against him from Iran, resulting from his involvement in the 2020 drone strike ordered by then-President Donald Trump, which eliminated Iranian General Qasem Soleimani.
Adding intrigue to this situation is Trump’s recent move to strip security details from other officials, namely his former national security advisor John Bolton and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, citing similar grounds as those for Milley.
Hegseth’s anticipated actions highlight the longstanding friction between Trump and Milley. The tension traces back to the latter's two communications with General Li Zuocheng, head of the People’s Liberation Army, which took place without Trump's knowledge. Described by authors Bob Woodward and Robert Costa, Milley assured General Li, "General Li, I want to assure you... we are not going to attack or conduct any kinetic operations against you." This was perceived as undermining Trump, who later claimed Milley was guilty of treason for speaking with China without his authorization.
Trump's public criticisms of Milley have been pointed. On his social media platform, Trump stated, "He could be tried for TREASON... dealing with his Chinese counterpart behind the President’s back." Such inflammatory statements indicate the depths of their discord.
Milley’s relations with Trump soured particularly during the latter's presidency, with reports of the general privately labeling Trump derogatorily, referring to him as a “dumbass” and “fascist,” as detailed by Woodward. This backdrop of animosity sets the stage for the current actions being taken against Milley.
After Trump's inauguration on January 20, 2025, Milley’s portrait was removed from the Pentagon hallway, which is home to the joint staff. This was only hours after the painting was unveiled, signifying changes within military and political ranks concerning Milley’s legacy. Another portrait, celebrating his service as chief of staff of the Army, is also set to be taken down.
The Pentagon has not yet released any statements addressing these developments, resulting in speculation about the motivations behind Hegseth’s planned actions.
The potential ramifications of revoking Milley’s security and launching investigations cast uncertainty over his military honor and career. The review will likely examine whether Milley undermined the hierarchical command structure during Trump’s term, exploring the extent of his actions and their impact on national security.
This investigation raises pressing questions about soldier conduct, ethical obligations, and the chain of command within the armed forces. The spotlight on Milley highlights the intersection of military leadership, political integrity, and the consequences of interactions with foreign counterparts.
Such scrutiny is not just limited to Milley; it reflects broader ramifications within the military establishment and raises thoughts about accountability and oversight within the ranks. With Hegseth taking distinct action, this situation lays bare the continuing divisions and controversies seasoned military figures confront.
While Milley’s future remains uncertain, his interactions with foreign leaders and decisions made during Trump's tenure will undoubtedly draw analyses from both political and military spectrums. This moment marks yet another chapter in the ever-evolving narrative of military and political relations, illustrating how the past continues to resonate within present-day governance structures.