RASC News Agency: U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has announced his intention to demand the resignation of all generals involved in the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan in August 2021, requiring that they submit their resignations “by noon on Inauguration Day.” Trump’s decision follows intense criticism within the United States and globally regarding the planning and execution of the Afghanistan exit.
According to “Politizoom”, an independent news outlet focused on exposing corruption and misconduct in Washington from a progressive perspective, Trump’s transition team is reportedly drafting an executive order to establish a “Military Board.” This board would comprise senior retired military personnel with authority to review three- and four-star officers, with a mandate to recommend the removal of those deemed unfit for leadership.
If enacted, this order would accelerate the dismissal of generals lacking “essential leadership qualities.” By appointing an external board, Trump could circumvent the traditional Pentagon hierarchy, signaling a clear intent to overhaul the military’s top leadership. As commander-in-chief, Trump holds the authority to dismiss any military officer at his discretion; the creation of an external board would amplify his stance on accountability within military leadership.
The draft order outlines that the purpose of this review would be to evaluate “leadership capability, strategic readiness, and commitment to military excellence.” However, it does not specify what actions or qualifications officers must demonstrate to meet these standards. The U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, widely described as a “catastrophic process,” led to significant challenges and human losses, with analysts and global policymakers citing it as one of the most consequential military failures in recent American history.