Trump backs Hegseth, says Pentagon chief 'won two wars'

US President Donald Trump said he would support Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth if impeachment proceedings were initiated against him. Trump commented on a Republican congressman's proposal to remove the Pentagon chief from office. Trump told reporters at a White House press conference, "I will support him. He won two wars." The president called Congressman Thomas Massie a "total loser" and criticized the impeachment attempt after what he said were US military successes. Massie introduced a resolution accusing Hegseth of conducting military operations against Iran without congressional approval and abusing his authority. A vote is scheduled for Wednesday. Hegseth previously stated he was not concerned about potential removal proceedings. The US Constitution does not allow the president to halt a congressional impeachment process or reinstate a minister removed through such procedures. Trump has previously expressed satisfaction with Hegseth's work.