Mark Milley Claims Trump Showed Disrespect to US Military with Execution Remark

Last updated Sep 28, 2023

TL/DR –

Outgoing Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley has responded to former President Donald Trump’s suggestion that he deserved to be executed for speaking with a Chinese general during Trump’s final months in office. Milley defended his actions, stating that they were part of an effort to reassure his Chinese counterpart about the stability of the US during a politically turbulent period. Trump had referred to Milley’s actions as a “treasonous act,” leading to calls for Milley’s resignation and accusations of treason, but Milley has insisted that numerous senior Trump officials were aware of his actions.

Outgoing Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley Defends Actions During Trump Presidency

Outgoing Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley addresses recent criticism from ex-President Donald Trump who suggested Milley deserved execution for communication with a Chinese general during Trump’s unstable final office months.

Milley, in an interview with CBS’s Norah O’Donnell, expressed no regrets on efforts reassuring his Chinese counterpart about US stability during Trump’s office tenure struggle. Trump, in a recent Truth Social post, deemed Milley’s backchannel communication as a “treasonous act” punishable by death in past times.

Despite Trump’s inflammatory comments and their contentious relationship, Milley asserts the commitment of his military institution, assuring Americans of their loyalty to the Constitution.

When asked about any impropriety or treason in his outreach to China, Milley strongly refuted these claims.

Milley confirmed making two backchannel calls to China’s top general, Li Zuocheng. These calls sought to reassure China of US resolve during periods of perceived instability domestically.

Despite sharp criticism and calls for resignation, Milley defends his actions, stating that senior Trump officials were aware of these interactions.

As he prepares to retire this week, Milley reassures that he has taken appropriate measures for his safety amidst Trump’s comments.

Trump’s attacks on Milley incited criticism from former Vice President Mike Pence, who has also been a subject of Trump’s public criticism.

Pence, during a “CNN This Morning” interaction with Phil Mattingly, disapproved of the negative language used against Milley, emphasizing his distinguished service in the US military.