WASHINGTON, United States – Web Desk: US President Donald Trump said he dismissed former US Navy Secretary John Phelan due to disagreements over military shipbuilding and procurement plans.
Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump said Phelan was a hardworking and tough individual but had conflicts with other officials over the construction and purchase of new warships.
“He worked hard, but he had disagreements with some people — mostly related to building and buying new ships,” Trump said.
According to Reuters, sources previously said Phelan was removed because he was seen as moving too slowly on naval reforms and efforts to speed up shipbuilding.
The Pentagon has not publicly provided a detailed explanation for his dismissal.
Meanwhile, Navy Under Secretary Hung Cao has been appointed as acting Navy secretary. Reports suggest relations between Cao and Phelan had also been strained.
The move comes as the United States continues to focus on strengthening naval capabilities amid rising geopolitical tensions.
