The Department of Defense has decided to suspend its participation in all think tank events until further notice. This decision marks a departure from the Pentagon’s usual engagement with Washington’s civilian national security sector.
The move aims to prevent the Department of Defense from associating with organizations, forums, and events that contradict the values of the current administration. Going forward, no DOD official will attend events organized by groups that promote globalism and exhibit animosity towards President Donald Trump.
The Pentagon’s press secretary, Kingsley Wilson, stated that the Office of Public Affairs will conduct a thorough vetting process for each official invitation to a conference. This vetting will determine whether the event aligns with President Trump’s agenda.
These events, often funded by foreign governments or defense contractors, provide a platform for them to advocate for their interests to key officials. Conversely, defense officials use these gatherings to convey the U.S. government’s message.
Recently, the Pentagon withdrew its officials from the Aspen Security Forum, citing concerns about the event’s promotion of globalism and anti-American sentiment. This decision led to the cancellation of several military officials’ speaking engagements at the forum.
While past defense secretaries have participated in defense conferences like the Munich Security Conference and the Reagan Defense Forum, the current administration is taking a different approach.
Although Defense Secretary Hegseth did not attend the Munich Security Conference, he did participate in the International Institute of Strategic Studies (IISS) Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore in May.
