Former Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell voted against Pete Hegseth's confirmation as Secretary of Defence, citing concerns over his qualifications and the global threats from China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. Despite opposition, Hegseth was confirmed after a tie-breaking vote by Vice President JD Vance.
The UK government has announced substantial cuts to its military equipment, scrapping multiple warships, helicopters, and drones to save £500 million over five years. Defence Secretary John Healey cites financial pressures as the main reason, stressing the need to modernise amidst global threats. Criticism follows, focusing on national security concerns, with savings aimed at reinvestment in more modern capabilities.
President-elect Donald Trump's nomination of Tulsi Gabbard for Director of National Intelligence marks a controversial shift towards figures with sceptical views on U.S. foreign policy. Gabbard, a former congresswoman with limited intelligence experience, has raised alarms due to her past support for contentious figures and alignment with Russian narratives. Amid calls for reforming the intelligence community, the Senate faces critical decisions regarding her confirmation and its implications for America's national security.