NewsTrump's sweeping military shake-up sparks loyalty debate

Trump's sweeping military shake-up sparks loyalty debate

Donald Trump, demanding absolute loyalty, introduces controversial changes in the US military command, warns expert Risa Brooks in "Foreign Affairs".

Donald Trump
Donald Trump
Images source: © PAP | JIM LO SCALZO / POOL

What do you need to know?

  • Changes in the Pentagon: Pete Hegseth, the new Secretary of Defence, dismissed key commanders, including General Charles Brown and Admiral Lisa Franchetti, replacing them with individuals loyal to Trump.
  • Use of the military within the country: Trump plans greater military involvement in domestic operations, raising concerns about breaching the Posse Comitatus Act of 1878.
  • Controversial decisions: The Pentagon deploys costly resources, such as heavy transport planes, for operations at the southern US border.

What changes is Trump making in the military command?

Donald Trump, demanding absolute loyalty, introduces controversial changes in the US military command. Pete Hegseth, the new Secretary of Defence, started his actions by dismissing the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Charles Brown, and the naval commander, Admiral Lisa Franchetti. The new commander is General Dan Caine, who does not meet all legal requirements but has declared full dedication to the President.

Will the US military be used within the country?

Trump plans for the military to play a larger role in domestic operations. He declared a state of emergency at the southern US border, which allows bypassing regulations limiting the use of the military for domestic actions. The Pentagon deploys costly resources, such as heavy transport planes, for operations at the border to highlight the seriousness of the President's approach to immigration issues.

What are the potential risks associated with these changes?

Expert Risa Brooks warns that the changes introduced by Trump could lead to a situation where commanders may be unwilling to express objective opinions and provide advice to the President. This could result in a greater risk to civilians during military operations. Additionally, there is concern that the military might be used against political opponents of the Trump administration.

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