Trump plans to attend unprecedented meeting with military commanders
President-elect Donald Trump is set to participate in a rare gathering of top U.S. military leaders on Tuesday. The meeting, described as unprecedented and secretive, involves Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth amid Trump's recent criticisms of military leadership. It aims to address concerns over the Pentagon's direction.
The upcoming meeting marks a significant and unusual event in the transition period following the 2024 election. According to reports, Trump will join an assembly of senior military officials, including combatant commanders, in what has been called an 'unprecedented gathering.' This mass meeting is scheduled for Tuesday and is expected to be held at a secure location, though specifics remain undisclosed.
Pete Hegseth, Trump's nominee for Secretary of Defense, is central to the discussions. The Fox News articles highlight that the session comes amid Trump's escalating criticisms of the current military establishment. Trump has publicly questioned the loyalty and effectiveness of top generals, stating in recent interviews that he intends to 'clean house' at the Pentagon. Hegseth, a Fox News contributor and veteran, has echoed these sentiments, advocating for reforms to refocus the military on core missions.
Sources indicate that the meeting's agenda includes briefings on global threats, readiness assessments, and potential changes in leadership. One commander involved noted anonymously, 'This is not your standard transition meeting; it's a direct line from the president-elect to the warfighters.' No official Pentagon statement has confirmed the event, but multiple reports suggest it was initiated at Trump's request to ensure alignment with his administration's priorities.
The gathering underscores tensions between Trump and elements of the defense bureaucracy. Trump has accused some officials of being 'woke' and politically motivated, a charge denied by military spokespeople who emphasize apolitical service. Hegseth's nomination itself has drawn scrutiny due to his lack of high-level Pentagon experience, though supporters argue his outsider perspective is an asset.
As the meeting approaches, it could signal broader shakeups. Analysts note that such direct engagements are rare for incoming presidents, potentially setting the tone for Trump's second term on national security matters. The event's secretive nature reflects sensitivities around military transitions and ongoing operations.