Former President Donald Trump has launched scathing criticism against retired General Mark Milley following a recent hearing on the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to label Milley as a “loser” and accuse him of bringing shame to the country during the Afghan conflict and beyond.
The sharp rebuke from Trump comes in response to Milley’s vocal criticisms of the former President’s leadership and decision-making during his tenure. Milley, who was appointed by Trump as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has emerged as a prominent critic since leaving his position. In his retirement speech in September, Milley referred to Trump as a “wannabe dictator” and expressed concerns about the former President’s actions and rhetoric.
The latest exchange between Trump and Milley highlights the ongoing tensions within the Republican Party and the military establishment regarding the handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal. The hearing, which took place yesterday morning, focused on assessing the decisions and strategies involved in the U.S. exit from Afghanistan and the subsequent Taliban takeover.
During the hearing, Milley defended his actions and decisions as part of the military leadership, emphasizing the challenges and complexities faced during the withdrawal process. However, his remarks have drawn sharp criticism from Trump and his supporters, who continue to question the effectiveness and legitimacy of the Afghan withdrawal under the Biden administration.
The public clash between Trump and Milley underscores broader debates within the political and military spheres regarding national security, foreign policy, and military leadership. It also reflects the ongoing polarization and divisions within American politics, particularly on issues related to military interventions and international engagements.
As the fallout from the Afghanistan withdrawal continues to reverberate through the political landscape, the criticisms and disagreements between key figures like Trump and Milley are likely to shape public discourse and debates on national security and military strategy moving forward.