A controversial military meeting took place in the US, with President Donald Trump addressing high-ranking military officials at a base near Washington. The gathering included hundreds of generals, admirals, and their advisors, and was initiated by US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Both Trump and Hegseth, in their speeches, made statements that were considered offensive to the military and discussed using the armed forces to confront domestic enemies. Hegseth made disparaging remarks about military personnel who did not share his views on representing the US Senate. The remarks caused consternation among attendees. This kind of meeting is significant, usually bringing together the highest-ranking military officers in the US. However, this time, Hegseth’s words about the soldiers were critical.
President Donald Trump also spoke during the meeting. He criticized his political opponents, claiming that crime was higher in Democratic-led cities, even though crime rates were actually decreasing. Trump stated he wanted to utilize the military against internal adversaries. Although the use of the military domestically is unusual in the US, Trump had previously deployed the National Guard to certain cities. Trump maintains that he is assisting the public and fighting crime, leading to protests in several areas. He described the meeting as significant for many, stating it was an ‘internal fight.’
Hegseth stated that previous leaders had turned the military into a ‘woke department,’ meaning they focused too much on political correctness. This approach would be abandoned. He also criticized the soldiers’ physical appearance, saying the Pentagon should not have ‘fat generals and admirals.’ Hegseth said that only those in peak physical condition would be selected for combat. If women did not meet the standards, that was acceptable. He did not want ‘weak’ people in the military. Hegseth condemned efforts to diversify the military and the inclusion of transgender soldiers. He also mentioned that recognition months, diversity offices, and boys wearing dresses would no longer be permitted. The rule against beards could potentially affect African American soldiers who suffer from a skin condition which causes great pain when shaving.
