A damning internal Pentagon report has accused former President Donald Trump of systematically attempting to politicise the United States military during his administration, raising alarm among defence experts about the erosion of democratic norms.
The Pentagon's Explosive Findings
The comprehensive investigation, completed in November 2025 but drawing on events from Trump's presidency, documents multiple instances where the former president allegedly pressured military leaders to demonstrate loyalty to him personally rather than to the constitution. The report highlights Trump's controversial deployment of military personnel during the 2020 racial justice protests and his persistent efforts to involve the armed forces in domestic political disputes.
According to defence officials familiar with the document, investigators found evidence that Trump repeatedly blurred the lines between proper civilian control of the military and inappropriate political manipulation. The timing of this report's completion, just after the 2025 election, ensures it will fuel ongoing debates about civil-military relations in the United States.
Constitutional Concerns and Military Ethics
Legal experts have expressed grave concerns about the implications outlined in the Pentagon document. The principle of civilian control over the military, a cornerstone of American democracy, appears to have been tested in unprecedented ways during the Trump administration.
The report specifically examines Trump's relationship with senior military leaders, including his public disagreements with former Defence Secretary Mark Esper and his appointment of officials perceived as more politically aligned with his agenda. Multiple retired generals and defence scholars have warned that such politicisation risks undermining the military's credibility and non-partisan tradition.
Ethical guidelines within the US military strictly prohibit active-duty personnel from engaging in political activities while in uniform. The investigation suggests these norms faced significant pressure during Trump's tenure, creating tension within the defence establishment.
Broader Implications for Democracy
The revelations come at a sensitive moment in American politics, with the country still grappling with the aftermath of the 2025 presidential election. Defence analysts worry that the normalisation of political influence over military affairs could have lasting consequences for national security and democratic stability.
Several congressional committees have already indicated they will examine the report's findings closely. The document is expected to spark renewed debate about safeguards against future politicisation of the military, regardless of which party controls the White House.
As the United States confronts these challenging questions, the Pentagon report serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of democratic institutions when faced with leaders who may prioritise personal loyalty over constitutional principles.
