Former President Donald Trump responded to comments made by his former aides, including retired US Marine General John Kelly, in a recent radio interview. Trump called Kelly a “stupid guy” and criticized his leadership style, calling him a “bully” and “weak.”
In the interview, Trump also made disparaging remarks about other former aides, such as former defense secretaries Mark Esper and Gen. James Mattis, as well as former chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Mark Milley.
As for Esper, Trump described him as “weak and ineffective,” while Mattis was labeled “a guy who wouldn’t get it done.” Trump also called Milley a “total dope” over the withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Trump’s comments come after Kelly made statements in various interviews in which he suggested Trump exhibits traits of a fascist and refers to Adolf Hitler’s Nazi generals when discussing loyalty.
Trump has defended himself against criticism, saying many of his former aides do not know him well and denying claims that he acted like a dictator. He expressed disbelief at the negative evaluations of individuals who were once part of his administration.
The exchange of criticism between Trump and his former aides underscores ongoing tensions in the political sphere and differing views on Trump’s leadership style and actions during his presidency.