SECRETARY OF DEFENSE PETE HEGSETH

Trump threatens broader troop deployment if ICE protests and riots spread
Donald Trump is ready to send National Guard to more cities. This is if immigration raid protests spread beyond Los Angeles. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said Pentagon could send more units. This is if law officers are threatened. Protests started in Los Angeles after ICE raids. Demonstrations have spread to other cities. Some protests were peaceful.

Israel-Iran war looming? US evacuates non-essential staff from middle-east, UK cautions ships in Gulf
Amid rising tensions with Iran over its nuclear program, the U.S. is reducing its non-essential staff presence in the Middle East, including Baghdad, Bahrain, and Kuwait. This decision reflects concerns about regional unrest, with potential impacts on maritime activities. While diplomatic talks face uncertainty, military readiness and security assessments are being closely monitored.

U.S. orders evacuation of non-essential personnel from Middle East amid rising Iran tensions
Amid rising tensions between Iran and Israel, the United States is reducing its diplomatic and military presence in parts of the Middle East. Non-essential personnel are being evacuated from Iraq, Bahrain, and Kuwait. This decision follows stalled nuclear negotiations with Iran. Military officials cite the need to protect American service members and their families.

Pentagon reveals how much Donald Trump's troop deployment to Los Angeles for 60 days could cost
The Pentagon estimates that the deployment of National Guard and Marines to Los Angeles will cost $134 million. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth defended the move amidst Democratic objections. Protests continue due to Trump's immigration policies. Trump has ordered troops to assist law enforcement, but local officials say they are not needed. California has sued the administration.

Pete Hegseth says Pentagon found $6 billion in budget cuts, faces questions on LA troop deployment
In his first congressional testimony since taking office, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth revealed $6 billion in Pentagon savings identified in collaboration with Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency. He also defended President Donald Trump’s controversial troop deployment to Los Angeles amid immigration protests. Lawmakers pressed Hegseth on military spending, a lack of transparency, and his contentious decisions, including using a private messaging app for military communication. Hegseth also highlighted major budget shifts, prioritising nuclear weapons and combat readiness over “nonlethal priorities”.

Is the US abandoning Ukraine? Aid cuts loom in 2026 budget, Europe pressed to counter Russia
The United States plans to decrease military assistance to Ukraine in the 2026 budget. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth says this is a strategic shift. The Trump administration aims to de-escalate the conflict through diplomacy. Washington wants NATO allies to take more responsibility for Europe's defence. Concerns grow over the cost of aid to Ukraine.
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$134 million and counting: Pentagon details the whopping cost of sending troops to quell L.A. riots
Congress questioned the U.S. Defense Secretary on sending troops to Los Angeles during protests. The Pentagon said the move cost $134 million. Some lawmakers were angry and asked if troops should be used this way inside the country.
Pete Hegseth faces hiring woes: At least three prospects say no to joining former Fox host at the Pentagon
Pete Hegseth is having trouble hiring new staff at the Pentagon. Some people don’t want to work with him after past firings and drama. Even the White House and Hegseth can't agree on who should be hired.
Japan expands missile capabilities amid China tensions, Trump administration uncertainty
Japan is expanding its missile capabilities and military presence near China as part of a strategic buildup. With concerns about China’s growing power and uncertainty over US defense commitments, Japan is increasing spending, modernizing forces, and deepening cooperation with the US military to maintain regional security and deter aggression
Los Angeles protests spark renewed calls for California independence, but is secession really possible?
Mass protests in Los Angeles, triggered by aggressive ICE raids and the deployment of National Guard troops, have reignited calls for California's secession from the U.S. A ballot measure seeking to gauge support for independence is gaining traction, though legal hurdles remain immense.
Trump sends National Guard troops to quell LA immigration protests
Donald Trump deployed National Guard troops to Los Angeles amidst protests against immigration raids. This decision, opposed by California Governor Gavin Newsom, follows clashes between federal agents and protesters. Demonstrators expressed anger over migrant arrests. Karoline Leavitt cited lawlessness as the reason. Karen Bass indicated troops were not yet deployed. Newsom criticized the move as inflammatory, urging peaceful protest.
Pentagon watchdog investigates if staffers were asked to delete Hegseth's Signal messages
This comes as Hegseth is scheduled to testify before Congress next week for the first time since his confirmation hearing. He is likely to face questions under oath not only about his handling of sensitive information but also the wider turmoil at the Pentagon following the departures of several senior aides and an internal investigation over information leaks.
Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth confident NATO will commit to Trump's defence spending target
NATO countries are in talks about raising their defence budgets. US wants members to spend 5% of their GDP on defence. The goal is to strengthen the alliance. Mark Rutte suggests a 3.5% defence spend and 1.5% on security. New targets for troops and weapons are expected. Germany may need more soldiers.
European shares edge higher ahead of ECB policy decision
European shares traded slightly higher on Thursday, supported by strength in automakers and industrial metal miners as investors awaited the European Central Bank's policy decision.
USNS Harvey Milk renaming: Who was Harvey Milk and why does the US Navy want a new name?
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has directed the Navy to rename the USNS Harvey Milk during Pride Month, sparking fierce backlash. The decision, part of an effort to "reestablish the warrior culture," aligns with the Trump administration's priorities.
Quad EAMs to hold July meeting in US to set up India summit agenda
Foreign ministers from the Quad nations, including Australia, India, Japan, and the United States, will convene in Washington in early July. The meeting aims to solidify the agenda for the Quad summit, which India will host later this year. Discussions will likely address maritime security, disaster management, and China's influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
Ukraine drone attack in Russia was really Pearl Harbor moment or overhyped? Know the truth
Ukraine's reported drone attacks against Russia has drawn several types of reactions. Was it really Pearl Harbor moment?
Shockwaves in Trump’s inner circle: Was Susie Wiles’ phone hacked? President breaks silence
A top aide to President Trump, Susie Wiles, was reportedly hacked. The hacker used her phone to send fake messages. Trump brushed it off, calling her strong. This comes just after another White House chat leak, raising big questions about their digital security.
China says Pete Hegseth is touting a Cold War mentality in calling it a threat
China has criticized the United States for escalating tensions. Pete Hegseth called China a threat at a security conference. China accuses the U.S. of a Cold War mentality. They allege the U.S. is undermining stability in the Asia-Pacific region. Hegseth stated the U.S. will boost defenses against China's growing power. Tensions are rising over Taiwan and trade issues.
China accuses US's Pete Hegseth of 'vilifying' remarks at security forum
China has formally protested to the United States following Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's remarks, which Beijing views as a vilification and a deliberate disregard for regional peace efforts. Hegseth's warnings about China's threat in the Indo-Pacific and calls for increased defense spending among allies have been met with strong condemnation. China accuses the U.S.
Freedom of the press or favor for Pete Hegseth? MAGA Pentagon reporter fired after scathing commentary
Gabrielle Cuccia, a MAGA-supporting reporter for OAN, was reportedly fired after publicly criticizing Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's limitations on press access. Cuccia's Substack post questioned the Defense Department's justification for restricting journalists' access to the Pentagon and the lack of official press conferences.
China warns USA over Taiwan: Is Beijing looking for Russia-like invasion?
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned on Saturday that China's military was "rehearsing for the real deal" as it prepares for a potential invasion of Taiwan.
No more ‘What did you do’ emails: Pentagon ditches Elon Musk mandate, encourages staff innovation instead
The Pentagon has ended a rule from Elon Musk that asked workers to send five work updates every week. Now, staff are being asked to share one idea to reduce waste instead. The rule had caused a lot of confusion and complaints before being dropped.
Pentagon chief irks Singaporeans with Lee-Trump comparison
US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth sparked controversy in Singapore by drawing a comparison between President Donald Trump and the nation's revered founding father, Lee Kuan Yew. Hegseth's remarks, delivered at the Shangri-La Dialogue, lauded both leaders as "historic men" with a focus on common sense and national interests.
Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth warns of imminent China threat, pushes Asian allies to hike defence spending
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned of a real and potentially imminent threat from China, urging Indo-Pacific allies to increase their defense spending. He emphasized the Indo-Pacific's priority for the U.S. and highlighted the devastating consequences of any Chinese attempt to conquer Taiwan.
Hegseth says US will stand by Indo-Pacific allies against 'imminent' threat of China
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth assured Indo-Pacific allies of unwavering support against China's growing military and economic influence, particularly regarding Taiwan. Hegseth highlighted China's active military training for a potential Taiwan invasion and its expanding presence in Latin America, urging regional nations to increase defense spending. He cautioned against relying on China's economic support while seeking U.S. security assistance.
Macron and Hegseth to address China and the Ukraine war at Singapore security forum
World leaders and defense officials are convening in Singapore for a security forum addressing China's assertiveness, the Ukraine war's global impact, and Asian conflicts. Emmanuel Macron's keynote will likely address these issues, including the pressure from U.S. tariffs. Pete Hegseth's presence underscores U.S. commitment to deterring Chinese action against Taiwan amidst regional concerns over U.S. foreign policy.
Pentagon rattled by leadership rift as Pete Hegseth’s inner circle feuds - is the Defense Secretary’s job on the line?
A man in Australia is in trouble for lying about medicine sales. Police took his 12 fancy cars, including Ferraris and Lamborghinis. He may go to jail if found guilty. The case is part of a big fraud investigation.
Donald Trump leads powerful Memorial Day ceremony at Arlington honoring fallen heroes — but his explosive social media tirade shocks the nation. Here’s all you need to know
Donald Trump Memorial Day speech drew attention as he honored fallen soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery with a traditional wreath-laying ceremony. But his morning took a sharp turn when he posted all-caps rants on social media, attacking former President Biden and federal judges. The contrast between the somber tribute and aggressive online messages sparked controversy. Joined by JD Vance and Pete Hegseth, Trump maintained the ceremonial tradition but overshadowed it with partisan attacks. This Memorial Day moment became more about political outrage than national unity. Read the full story for all the powerful details and reactions.
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