U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated the DOD does not focus on climate change but on warfighting and training. This declaration follows proposed cuts to Pentagon climate programs, which experts warn could affect military readiness. The DOD collaborates with DOGE, led by Elon Musk, to target inefficiencies and potentially save $80 million.
U.S. Department of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently emphasized that his department prioritizes mission-critical activities such as warfighting and training over climate change initiatives. His remarks followed a post from CNN journalist Haley Britzky, who noted that the DOD and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) are planning to cut climate-related programs. Experts warn that these cuts may jeopardize military readiness and operations.
In a social media exchange, Britzky mentioned that officials had expressed concerns about the implications of reducing climate programs on military effectiveness. Pentagon spokesperson John Ullyot affirmed, stating that climate zealotry does not align with the department’s objectives. Hegseth concurred, reinforcing that the DOD does not engage in climate change initiatives and remains focused on its core functions.
Additionally, DOGE, led by billionaire Elon Musk, is collaborating with the DOD to eliminate wasteful expenditures. Initial findings from DOGE identified millions allocated to various diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, including significant funding assigned to universities for training and studies that Hegseth criticized as non-essential to military operations.
Sean Parnell, DOD spokesman, echoed this sentiment, labeling these expenditures as distractions from the core mission of the military. He expressed optimism that the reviews could uncover approximately $80 million in potential savings. Hegseth noted the involvement of veterans within DOGE and praised their dedication to identifying and eliminating inefficiencies related to previous administrations’ priorities that do not serve the department’s objectives.
In summary, Secretary Pete Hegseth has made it clear that the U.S. Department of Defense will prioritize warfighting and training over climate-related initiatives, emphasizing the importance of military readiness. His comments come amid budget cuts to climate programs under the aegis of DOGE, which is targeting wasteful spending and aims to save approximately $80 million. The collaboration with DOGE reflects a commitment to streamline military operations and eliminate redundancies.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
