US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a 20% reduction in the number of generals and admirals, calling it a necessary step to streamline the military and prepare for future conflicts. The cuts, set to be completed by 2027, follow a year of restructuring aimed at eliminating what Hegseth calls a 'woke' culture and focusing on combat readiness.
Hegseth, addressing junior officers at Marine Corps Base Quantico, emphasized the need for accountability and a shift toward autonomous warfare. He also announced the creation of a new drone-focused command to oversee the integration of robotic and autonomous systems, citing the evolving nature of modern combat. The move comes as the US faces a stalemate with Iran over the Strait of Hormuz.
Democratic lawmakers have raised concerns about the potential politicization of the military, with some calling the cuts a 'purge' that could take years to reverse. Senator Mark Kelly criticized Hegseth's approach, warning that the removal of a generation of leaders could have long-term consequences for military readiness. Republican Senator Mike Rounds urged further scrutiny of Hegseth's rationale for the reductions.