Pentagon Pulls Officials from Aspen Security Forum, Citing ‘Anti-American’ Views

In a politically sensitive decision, the Pentagon has withdrawn multiple senior military officials from attending the highly regarded Aspen Security Forum, citing allegations that the gathering endorses “anti-American” perspectives and globalist principles that conflict with the values of the Trump administration.

The Aspen Security Forum, held annually by the nonpartisan Aspen Institute, stands out as a premier gathering in the national security arena. This often includes celebrities from various political backgrounds, alongside both current and former military personnel, as well as policymakers and experts in global security. This year's forum featured notable speakers, including Adm. Samuel Paparo from the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, Gen. Bryan Fenton of Special Operations Command, and Lt. Gen. John Brennan representing U.S. Africa Command.

“The Department of Defense is not inclined to endorse an organization that has welcomed former officials known for their role in creating turmoil overseas and experiencing setbacks domestically,” stated Pentagon Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson in a statement. She subsequently remarked that the forum “advocates the detrimental aspects of globalism, shows contempt for our esteemed nation, and fosters animosity towards the president of the United States.”

Wilson’s provocative comments, which Just the News initially highlighted, triggered swift criticism. The Anti-Defamation League has highlighted the frequent use of the label "globalist" as a subtle signal of antisemitism by servers. They also emphasized Wilson’s recorded history of expressing extremist opinions on social media, featuring antisemitic themes and white nationalist language, some of which are still accessible to the public.

Later in the day, the Pentagon issued a more measured statement from spokesperson Sean Parnell, emphasizing that the forum’s “values do not align with the values” of the current Pentagon leadership. Despite the change in approach, Wilson reaffirmed her position, stating to Military.com that she remains committed to her initial remarks.

The action seems to have the support of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who shared a positive remark on social media alluding to Wilson’s phrasing. Hegseth made headlines just days prior at a Turning Point USA rally, a gathering known for its right-wing political stance, where he criticized NATO for allegedly “freeloading off of America” and asserted that the Department of Defense is apolitical.

The Aspen Institute asserts that its forum is “resolutely nonpartisan,” focused on encouraging discussions regarding U.S. foreign policy. There has been no determination about the Pentagon's involvement in future forums, such as the Reagan National Security Forum.

The withdrawal highlights growing divisions among U.S. defense leaders and raises concerns about the politicization of national security matters that have traditionally been viewed as impartial territory.