Trump Defends Hegseth After Reports of Conflict

U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly supported Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth amid reports of possible disagreements over the state of American weapon stockpiles. In a post on Truth Social, he called the information being spread by the media false and unfounded.

Trump stated that he is satisfied with the work of the Pentagon chief. According to the president, Hegseth is respected in the armed forces, has achieved an increase in military recruitment, and has made significant changes at the department.

Earlier, The Washington Post, citing unnamed sources, reported that Trump allegedly demanded that Hegseth explain the reduction in stockpiles of certain types of ammunition. According to the outlet, the conversation took place during a meeting at the presidential retreat Camp David.

It was claimed that the president believed the stockpile problem was resolved but later learned of a shortage of some missiles and air defense systems. The media linked the ammunition deficit to prolonged U.S. military operations and the need to simultaneously maintain readiness for other potential conflicts.

Trump rejected reports of a conflict with Hegseth and accused journalists of spreading false information. He also stated that the U.S. has significant ammunition reserves, and American defense companies are expanding production and building new plants.

The White House and the Pentagon also deny reports of a quarrel. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that she attended the Camp David meeting and that the conversation described by journalists did not occur.

Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell described as fictitious both the reports of a confrontation between Trump and Hegseth and claims about a critical weapon shortage. According to him, the minister will continue to work on strengthening the U.S. defense industrial base.

Exact data on American stocks of missiles and other ammunition is classified. Therefore, it is impossible to independently verify the administration's statements and the media's assessments.

Sources: Donald Trump, Axios, The Guardian