President Donald Trump publicly praised former Navy Secretary John C. Phelan upon his departure from officehighlighting his performance as “exceptional” and emphasizing that he is an “intelligent, firm and respected by all” figure.
In a message broadcast on his Truth Social network, Trump assured that Phelan’s decision to leave the administration was voluntary, despite press reports that point to internal tensions within the Pentagon.
“I greatly appreciate the work he has done and, without a doubt, I would love to have him again in the future,” wrote the president, whom he also described as an old friend and a successful businessman.
Phelan’s departure became effective Wednesday, Defense Department spokesman Sean Parnell confirmed. In a brief statement, Pentagon officials, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, thanked him for his service. without offering details about the reasons for his resignation.
President Trump posts on TruthSocial: John Phelan is a protracted time ideal friend, and in actuality worthwhile businessman, who did a famous job serving as my Secretary Of The Navy for the final 365 days.
John helped my Administration rebuild Sleepy Joe Biden’s impulsively depleted, and almost… pic.twitter.com/sg2iFyIFAF
— Donald J Trump Posts TruthSocial (@TruthTrumpPost) April 23, 2026
Internal tensions and versions found
Although the official version maintains that Phelan left office by his own decisionreports from media such as The Unusual York Times and other national networks have pointed to disagreements with Hegseth and Deputy Secretary of Defense Steve Feinberg as key factors in his departure.
According to these versions, the now former secretary would have faced questions about the pace of naval modernization and ship construction amid growing international tensions, particularly in the context of the conflict with Iran. However, so far, the White House has not publicly confirmed these differences.
Phelan, who took office in 2025 after a career in the financial sector, was responsible for overseeing the organization, training and equipment of the Navy. His appointment drew initial criticism due to his lack of military experience, although he received bipartisan support in the Senate.
STATEMENT:
Secretary of the Navy John C. Phelan is departing the administration, efficient straight.
On behalf of the Secretary of Battle and Deputy Secretary of Battle, we are grateful to Secretary Phelan for his service to the Department and American Navy.
We desire…
— Sean Parnell (@SeanParnellASW) April 22, 2026
Relief in the Pentagon and changes in the cabinet
The position will be filled on an interim basis by Hung Cao, a veteran with more than two decades of military experience.while the administration clarifies a permanent replacement.
Phelan’s departure adds to a series of recent moves within the Department of Defense. Among them stands out the dismissal of General Randy George and other senior commanders, in what some analysts consider a reconfiguration of the military leadership under Hegseth’s leadership.
Media outlets such as NPR estimate that nearly 30 senior officials have left their positions in recent months.in a context marked by internal pressures and foreign policy challenges.
The international environment, including the war in the Middle East and tensions in strategic sea routes, has added pressure to the US defense apparatus. Despite this, the Trump administration has insisted that these changes are part of an adjustment process to strengthen the military structure.
For now, no schedule has been announced for the appointment of the new Secretary of the Navy.as the Pentagon seeks to maintain operational continuity in one of its key branches.
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