Hegseth Promises Prosecution for Pentagon Leakers Amid Chaos

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has warned that Pentagon staffers found leaking sensitive information to the media could face prosecution, emphasizing that ongoing investigations have already led to the removal of several senior officials. Hegseth maintains that these leaks are attempts to undermine President Trump's policies and asserts that evidence will be handed over to the Department of Justice for possible legal action. Some of the dismissed officials, including Dan Caldwell and John Ullyot, have denied wrongdoing and criticized the process, with Ullyot publicly challenging Hegseth's leadership. The controversy has been compounded by reports that Hegseth himself used unsecured messaging apps to discuss sensitive plans, drawing further scrutiny. Despite the turmoil, both President Trump and the White House have expressed strong support for Hegseth, with administration officials claiming internal resistance against him within the Pentagon. Hegseth insists that his priority is protecting national security, not shielding former colleagues.