By Newspot Nigeria Global Desk
In a bold move amid the ongoing government shutdown, U.S. President Donald J. Trump announced that he has directed the Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to ensure that American troops receive their paychecks on October 15, despite the budget impasse in Congress.
In a statement posted on Truth Social, President Trump criticized Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and the Democratic Party, accusing them of holding the military and national security “hostage” during what he described as the “Radical Left Shutdown.”
“I am using my authority as Commander in Chief to direct our Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to use all available funds to get our troops paid,” Trump declared. “We have identified funds to do this, and Secretary Hegseth will use them to pay our troops.”
Trump’s statement highlights escalating tensions between the White House and Congress as the shutdown continues to strain federal operations. He emphasized that he would not allow Democrats to endanger military welfare or national security, urging them to “open the government” so that both sides can resume discussions on healthcare and other critical policy matters.
The President’s decision to prioritize military pay could bring temporary relief to thousands of service members affected by the shutdown but also underscores the deep political divisions fueling Washington’s budget crisis.
Reported by Newspot Nigeria
