President Donald Trump has signed four executive orders that will significantly reshape US military policies, including banning transgender individuals from serving in the armed forces, dismantling diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, and reinstating service members discharged for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine.
Trump announced the executive orders on Monday while returning to Washington aboard Air Force One. The move follows the swearing-in of Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense on Saturday. Hegseth, known for his opposition to DEI initiatives, confirmed that additional executive actions would soon follow.
Trump has reinstated and expanded his 2017 ban on transgender military service members, reversing the 2021 policy implemented by former President Joe Biden. The new directive includes additional guidelines on gender pronouns and readiness standards, with officials citing concerns over medical treatments and deployment capabilities.
Another order mandates the elimination of all DEI-related policies in the military, immediately placing employees in federal DEI offices on paid administrative leave. The Pentagon will also conduct a review of all DEI practices in the armed forces.
Reinstatement of Troops Discharged Over Vaccine Mandates
Trump has directed the Pentagon to reinstate active and reserve service members previously discharged for refusing COVID-19 vaccination, restoring their ranks and granting them back pay. Although the Pentagon had already rescinded the vaccine mandate following a 2023 congressional directive, this order accelerates their return.
The fourth order calls for the development of a “next-generation” missile defense shield, modeled after Israel’s Iron Dome system, to protect the U.S. from ballistic, hypersonic, and cruise missile threats. The plan envisions a space-based detection and interception system, though specifics on funding and implementation remain unclear.
The orders have sparked debate, with supporters arguing they restore military readiness and discipline, while critics contend they undermine inclusivity and national security. Advocacy groups have condemned the transgender service ban, and military officials are assessing the logistical challenges of reinstating discharged personnel.
With additional executive actions expected in the coming days, Trump’s administration is swiftly advancing its agenda to reshape the U.S. military.
