Trump order blocks families of US troops from leaving Afghanistan
Some US service members with family members now trapped in Afghanistan feel "betrayed," one advocate said.
Veterans
Released Army vet in Jan. 6 case must get court permission to enter DC
The order applies to Oath Keepers founder Stewart Rhodes and three other Army veterans also convicted for their roles in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack.
VA places 60 staff on leave after shutting down DEI offices
The moves come after a White House executive order mandating an end to federal equity and inclusion efforts.
US troops arriving in Texas, California to support border security
It's the first batch of troops deployed to the border following President Trump’s executive order demanding an immediate crackdown on immigration.
Lawmaker: Tricare West problems ‘actively harming military readiness’
A Washington lawmaker wants answers from the Defense Health Agency about what it's doing to address problems plaguing the TriWest transition.
Outgoing DOD family official: ‘Don’t forget who you’re working for’
Patricia Barron connected with – and listened to – military spouses during her four years as head of DOD family policy.
More than 300k VA health jobs exempted from White House hiring freeze
About two-thirds of Veterans Affairs jobs will be excluded from a White House order blocking new hiring.
Pentagon to send 1,500 troops to border to start Trump-ordered surge
The deployment signals the military’s increased role in a much more aggressive immigration policy under the second Trump administration.
Lawmakers move to limit foreign real estate buys near military bases
The measure, sponsored by Republican Sen. Ted Cruz, would require federal approval before companies linked to China could acquire land near U.S. bases.
Pete Hegseth’s ex-sister-in-law tells senators he abused second wife
Hegseth denies the allegations outlined in the affidavit, which says he was abusive to his second wife to the point where she feared for her safety.
Trump’s federal hiring freeze raises fears about VA medical care
VA hires about 40,000 new workers every year to maintain operations at VA medical sites. It's unclear if that can continue under Trump's hiring halt.
Trump revokes order allowing transgender troops to serve in military
Trump has not instituted a new ban on transgender troops serving, but the repeal of Biden’s policy clears the way for one, advocates said.
Pentagon announces slate of new officials for second Trump term
The 32 leaders will steer the department while its top officials await Senate confirmation.
Convicted veterans among Jan. 6 rioters granted pardons, commutations
About 230 people with military backgrounds were charged in connection with the attack and have now been granted clemency by President Trump.
VA secretary nominee promises more medical care options and upgrades
Nominee Doug Collins said he wants to expand VA's community care program while still strengthening the existing department health care system.
Coast Guard commandant fired after Trump returns to White House
Adm. Linda Fagan had served in the top Coast Guard role since June 2022 and was the first uniformed woman to lead a military branch.
Key Senate confirmation moves follow Trump’s inauguration
Defense and veterans hearings for the week of Jan. 20, 2025.