Pentagon Senior Leadership Cuts Raise Diversity Concerns

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered sweeping cuts to senior U.S. military leadership, mandating a 20% reduction in four-star generals and admirals, a 20% cut in National Guard general officers, and a 10% reduction in all general and flag officers. The directive has resulted in the removal of several top leaders, including a disproportionate number of women and people of color, raising concerns about politicization and setbacks to diversity efforts. Proposals under consideration include merging major combat commands and a comprehensive review of the Unified Command Plan. Critics warn the changes could centralize power within a small group of advisers and risk operational effectiveness. Many of the changes require congressional approval, and efforts are also underway to shrink civilian defense ranks. The Pentagon has not released a detailed timeline or specific list of positions to be eliminated.