US President Donald Trump has fired several US national security officials, broadcaster CNN and other news outlets reported on Thursday.
The New York Times It was reported that approximately six NSC staffers were let go, with others being transferred to different roles, after a meeting took place between Trump and right-wing figure Laura Loomer.
Several high-ranking NSC officials, including David Feith, who was responsible for technology and national security issues, as well as Brian Walsh, who handled intelligence affairs, have been dismissed according to reports from Reuters.
The causes of the dismissals remained unclear; however, anonymous sources informed Reuters about some problems related to their screening and backgrounds.
This occurs following a scandal that captivated Trump's National Security Council (NSC) the previous week, when a reporter from an American journal The Atlantic accidentally joined a conversation on the Signal app where authorities were discussing potential air strikes. Houthi rebels in Yemen .
What information do we have regarding the meeting?
The encounter between Trump and Loomer apparently went on for about 30 minutes and allegedly involved National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, as per various media accounts.
The Vice President, JD Vance, Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, and Director of Presidential Personnel Sergio Gor were reportedly present at the event.
Trump acknowledged the meeting to journalists on board Air Force One, referring to Loomer as "an outstanding patriot." And she stated that she recommended individuals for hiring. Trump didn’t mention whether she also advised him to dismiss members of the NSC staff.
Who is Laura Loomer?
A far-right conspiracy theorist And as an influencer, Loomer has gained recognition for his provocative comments and particularly for asserting that the September 11th terror attacks were orchestrated internally.
In spite of the debates around her, Loomer has a close relationship with Trump. During the 2024 elections, she frequently rode aboard his campaign aircraft.
Loomer verified the appointment on social media platforms. She mentioned that she shared "opposition research" with Trump.
"It was an honor to meet with President Trump and share my research findings with him," Loomer stated on X on Thursday.
“I’ll keep striving to back his initiatives and emphasize the critical nature of, and the requirement for, THOROUGH SCREENING, to safeguard both the President of the United States and our nation’s safety.”
She stated that "in consideration of President Trump and the confidentiality of the Oval Office, I will refrain from sharing any specifics" about the meeting.
Edited by: Zac Crellin
Author: Jenipher Camino Gonzalez (along with AP, Reuters)