
Pentagon investigates Gen. Mark Milley amid security concerns, potentially revoking his clearance and demoting his rank.
Quick Takes
- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth revokes Gen. Milley’s security detail and clearance
- Investigation ordered to determine if Milley disrupted the chain of command
- Milley’s portraits being removed from Pentagon
- Actions stem from alleged unauthorized communications with China
- Trump-Milley relationship soured over various issues, including Jan. 6 response
Pentagon Takes Action Against Gen. Milley
In a significant move, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has revoked the security detail and clearance for retired Gen. Mark Milley, former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. This action is part of a broader investigation into Milley’s conduct during his tenure, particularly focusing on alleged unauthorized communications with China that may have undermined the chain of command.
The Pentagon’s chief of staff, Joe Kasper, emphasized the importance of this decision, 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.”
🚨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
Investigation and Potential Demotion
The Defense Department’s Inspector General has been directed to conduct a thorough review of Milley’s actions. This investigation could potentially lead to Milley losing a star in his retirement rank, a significant blow to his military legacy. The probe will focus on whether Milley’s conduct during Trump’s first term constituted a breach of the chain of command.
“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.
This development marks a significant shift in how Milley’s service is being evaluated post-retirement. It also raises questions about the long-term consequences of high-ranking military officials’ actions during politically sensitive periods.
Removal of Portraits and Security Concerns
In a symbolic move, the Pentagon is reportedly removing portraits honoring Milley’s achievements. This includes a portrait in the Pentagon’s Marshall Corridor, adding to the public visibility of the action against the former general. These removals, while not directly related to national security, contribute to the narrative of Milley’s falling out of favor with the current administration.
The revocation of Milley’s security detail is particularly noteworthy given the ongoing threats from Iran, linked to his involvement in the 2020 drone strike on Gen. Qasem Soleimani. Critics argue that this decision potentially exposes Milley to security risks, highlighting the severity of the administration’s response to his alleged misconduct.
Political Fallout and Historical Context
The actions against Milley are set against a backdrop of strained relations between the former general and President Trump. Their disagreements span various issues, including the response to the George Floyd protests and the events of January 6th at the Capitol. Milley’s calls to his Chinese counterpart, allegedly without the knowledge of President Trump, have been a particular point of contention.
These developments underscore the complex interplay between military leadership, political allegiances, and national security considerations. As the investigation unfolds, it will likely continue to be a subject of intense scrutiny and debate, reflecting broader tensions in civil-military relations in the United States.