Hegseth has created 'climate of fear' at Pentagon, former Air Force secretary says

Key Points:

• Frank Kendall highlights the significance of the Army secretary's resignation, noting it causes a leadership vacuum with acting officials unable to make major strategic decisions until permanent appointments are made.
• He emphasizes that while day-to-day operations continue, the absence of permanent leaders stalls major policy, budget, and structural changes within the Army.
• Kendall describes an unprecedented climate of fear within the Pentagon due to Secretary Hegseth's removal of over two dozen senior officers without cause and interference in promotion processes, which undermines candid military advice.
• Senior military officials have a duty to provide honest, objective, and candid advice to political leaders, balancing legal, moral, and ethical considerations, but current pressures lead many to tell leaders what they want to hear rather than the full truth.
• Kendall warns of legal and ethical challenges faced by military leaders, especially regarding controversial actions like attacks on drug boats, where legal advisers aligned with political leadership complicate the ability of commanders to refuse unlawful orders.