Hegseth reported that the Pentagon initiated so-called “retirement grade determination” proceedings, an administrative measure that could reduce the rank at which Kelly retired and, consequently, his retirement pay. Furthermore, the Pentagon chief issued a formal letter of censure, which, he explained, will be permanently added to the senator's military record.

“This censure is a necessary step in the process,” Hegseth wrote on the social network X, where he accused Kelly of “reckless conduct” that, in his view, undermined the chain of command and created confusion among members of the Armed Forces. The decision avoids a court-martial, which would have subjected the legislator to a military tribunal.

Mark Kelly denounces political retaliation