Pentagon Revokes Security Clearance for Former General Mark Milley

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The Pentagon has officially stripped General Mark Milley, a former top US military official, of his security detail and clearance. This decision, made by Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, marks one of his initial actions in office and includes an investigation into Milley's conduct alongside a review of his military grade.

Milley, who served as the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff during former President Donald Trump's administration, has publicly criticized Trump, even labeling him a "fascist" in a book published by Bob Woodward. Tensions escalated between Milley and Trump following reports of phone calls Milley had with his Chinese counterpart before the end of Trump's presidency, intended to assure China of US stability during a tumultuous period marked by a Capitol riot. Trump has accused Milley of treason for these communications.

In the context of these events, President Joe Biden issued pre-emptive pardons for Milley and a select group of former officials, including Anthony Fauci, to protect them from potential retaliation by Trump should he return to office. Milley expressed gratitude for the pardons, stating he wished to avoid unnecessary stress and distraction for his family and colleagues.

The Department of Defense has also instructed its Inspector General to investigate the circumstances around Milley's actions to determine if further military grade evaluations are warranted.

Additionally, Trump’s new administration has rescinded security protections for other former officials from his administration, indicating a broader pattern of changing security protocols for those perceived as adversaries.

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