Unofficial discussions are underway in the Pentagon regarding potential reactions to orders from Donald Trump. The U.S. Department of Defense is wary that directives from the newly elected president could involve the deployment of troops within the country and the dismissal of several apolitical officials. This concern stems from Trump's previous hints at a willingness to use military forces to maintain order in the U.S. and carry out mass deportations.
CNN reports this, citing representatives from the defense department. The publication notes that Trump has also expressed intentions to reshuffle the federal government in favor of loyal individuals and to "cleanse" the national security system of corrupt officials. During his previous presidency, Trump had a strained relationship with the senior military leadership, particularly with retired General Mark Milley. As chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Milley took steps to limit Trump's authority regarding the use of nuclear weapons. In turn, Trump frequently criticized American generals, labeling them as "weak" and "ineffective." Currently, the military is analyzing various scenarios to prepare for changes in the Pentagon.
"We are all trying to plan for the worst-case scenarios, although the actual situation remains uncertain," said a defense department representative.
Trump's return to the presidency also raises concerns. There is a risk of receiving unlawful orders, especially if Trump's political appointees within the department do not resist.
"The law requires military personnel to refuse to carry out illegal orders, but the question remains: what happens next? Could such actions lead to mass resignations of senior leadership?" added another representative.
It is still unclear who Trump may appoint as head of the Pentagon. However, experts believe that Trump and his team will likely try to avoid tensions with military leadership. The new White House administration is expected to seek to prevent conflicts that arose during Trump's first term.
"I am absolutely confident that our leaders will remain on the side of the right decisions under any circumstances. I also believe that Congress will continue to support our armed forces," said former U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin.
Even before Donald Trump's official victory in the U.S. elections, he delivered a victory speech and declared himself the 47th president of the United States. He also promised a "golden age" for America and outlined his political agenda for a new term. He aims to expand the powers of the presidency and change the role of the States on the international stage. The Republican summarizes his approach with Reagan's phrase: "Peace through strength."
Trump addressed supporters in Florida and stated that this campaign has been the best in the history of U.S. presidential elections. According to The Hill, Donald Trump secured enough votes. Preliminary results from Fox News, a channel supporting Republicans, as of November 6 indicated that Trump was garnering 277 electoral votes, ensuring victory in the elections.
On November 7, he appointed his campaign manager Susan Wiles as the White House Chief of Staff. Her appointment marked the first significant appointment following his electoral victory this week. Wiles will be the first woman in U.S. history to lead the White House staff.