Trump Dismisses Navy Secretary Amid Leadership Turmoil at Pentagon
Trump Fires Top US Navy Official, Reports Cites "Bad Relations" With Hegseth
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Navy Secretary John Phelan has been fired amid reports of poor relations with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and slow reforms in shipbuilding. This dismissal is part of a broader shakeup at the Pentagon, coinciding with heightened military tensions in the Middle East and a significant defense budget request from President Trump.
- 01Navy Secretary John Phelan was fired due to slow reforms and poor relations with key Pentagon officials.
- 02His dismissal is part of a broader leadership shakeup at the Pentagon under Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
- 03The U.S. military is increasing naval assets in the Middle East amid tensions with Iran.
- 04Phelan is the first service secretary fired since Trump returned to office.
- 05Senator Jack Reed expressed concern over instability within the Department of Defense.
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Navy Secretary John Phelan was fired on Wednesday, marking another significant leadership change at the Pentagon during a time of military tension. Reports suggest that Phelan's dismissal was influenced by his slow progress on shipbuilding reforms and strained relationships with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and other senior officials. Phelan is the first service secretary to be dismissed since Donald Trump resumed office, reflecting ongoing upheaval within the Department of Defense. This change occurs as the U.S. military enhances its naval presence in the Middle East amid a ceasefire with Iran. The Pentagon's current focus includes a $1.5 trillion defense budget proposal for fiscal year 2027, which allocates over $65 billion for new warships as part of the
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The firing of Phelan may affect naval operations and shipbuilding timelines, impacting military readiness and defense contracts.
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