Policy

US spy chief fires intelligence leaders who disputed Trump’s Venezuela-gang claims

A National Intelligence Council assessment rebutted the president's claims that Tren de Aragua is carrying out an “invasion” overseen by the Venezuelan head of state.

Exclusive Policy

JSOC commander likely to be SOCOM pick, sources say

The White House “loves" Vice Adm. Mitch Bradley, but final decisions are not yet in.

Exclusive Policy

State Department plans deeper-than-anticipated staff cuts

Some 3,400 jobs are now expected to be eliminated starting on June 2, up from around 2,000.

Policy

Senators question Army undersecretary nominee on transformation plan

The Anduril senior director was also questioned about his determination to hold onto defense-industry stocks.

Policy

Could striking first in cyber be new Pentagon policy?

Bolstering cyber operations is top of mind for Katie Sutton, the White House’s pick to lead Defense Department cyber policy.

Policy

Trump’s Pentagon-personnel nominee wants to curb DOGE data access

But Anthony Tata, a retired Army general, couldn’t outrun past inflammatory and social media posts during his confirmation hearing.

Policy

Hegseth orders elimination of 10% of general, admiral jobs

Memo also orders the elimination of one-fifth of 4-star posts. No deadline, few guidelines given for shakeup.

Policy

‘Gimmicks’: GOP lawmakers slam Trump’s ‘trillion-dollar’ defense-spending proposal

White House claims of a 13% increase rest on unusual budgetary maneuvers, not a higher DOD topline.

Policy

Defense One Radio, Ep. 179: The Army’s updated fitness test

We discuss nearly three decades of Army fitness tests, and the combat-related changes slated for introduction next year.

Policy

Top NSC official wants to normalize offensive hacking as tool of US might

Alexei Bulazel's remarks are the clearest indication yet that the United States is working out ways to hack back against foreign enemies and rivals.

Policy

Trump’s pick for Air Force No. 2 civilian defends past political comments

Democratic lawmakers voiced concern over Lohmeier’s previous calls for “serious consequences” for officials who “hyper-politicized” the military.

Policy

Hegseth issues Army a lengthy to-do list

The Wednesday memo includes deadlines for weapons and tech, orders to streamline units and organizations, and more.

Policy

‘Just wait’ to see how CISA reforms play out, DHS head tells cyber community

Kristi Noem said her cuts to nation's lead cyber defense agency plus other unspecified changes will eventually strengthen it.

Policy

The Army made a tank it doesn’t need and can’t use. Now it’s figuring out what to do with it.

The M10 Booker busted its requirements from the beginning. It’s a case study in how Army procurement wants to change.

Policy

New White House order makes it easier to fire probationary employees

Move comes after judge called first Trump-administration effort to remove such workers a “a total sham.”

Policy

Read the State Department's new org chart

Cyber and digital policy functions move to the Economic Growth office, and the intelligence-and-research bureau to a new Emerging Threats organization.

Breaking News Policy

State to slash 15% of domestic staff, eliminate 132 offices

Layoffs are expected by July 1. No overseas posts are yet affected.

Policy

US to allies: Don’t use Chinese satellite services

Internal talking points also give State Department officials guidance on responding to concerns about SpaceX’s Starlink.