War Secretary Pete Hegseth's top aide is facing scrutiny after allegedly spreading a story about sneaking out in disguise with the Pentagon chief, a claim reportedly viewed by insiders as false and possibly part of an effort to root out leaks.
Ricky Buria, Hegseth's chief of staff, reportedly told colleagues that he and Hegseth slipped past security at a Pentagon City hotel and went out drinking together, the New York Post reported Friday.
However, several sources familiar with the situation said there is no evidence the incident ever occurred and believe the story may have been fabricated.
"This did not happen. But nonetheless, he told people it happened," one source told the Post, adding that the tale appeared to be a "bizarre effort" to test loyalty and identify potential leakers inside the Pentagon.
The allegations have fueled frustration among some officials, who say the episode underscores ongoing internal tensions within the department as it works to carry out major military operations.
Hegseth, a key figure in President Donald Trump's defense agenda, has pledged to bring discipline and focus to the Pentagon, including a commitment to abstain from alcohol while in office.
The alleged story raised concerns among colleagues who questioned why it would be circulated.
According to the Post, Buria's rise within the Pentagon has been rapid, moving from a junior military aide to one of Hegseth's closest advisers.
His growing influence, combined with reports of internal drama, has made him a controversial figure among some staff.
Pentagon officials pushed back on the claims, dismissing them as gossip.
"This is false, and the Department is not going to entertain Washington gossip while we are focused on major military operations abroad," a spokesperson said.
Some insiders believe the episode reflects an effort by the Trump administration to crack down on leaks, which have historically plagued Washington bureaucracies.
The administration has taken a tougher stance on unauthorized disclosures, though identifying the source of leaks remains difficult.
The controversy comes as Hegseth continues to push reforms aimed at restoring what he has called a merit-based culture within the military, reversing policies from the previous administration that he and his allies have criticized as overly focused on identity-based initiatives.
Separately, reports have surfaced of internal disagreements over military promotions and personnel decisions, highlighting the challenges of reshaping a massive institution like the Department of War.
Despite the internal friction, supporters argue the administration remains focused on its core mission: strengthening national defense, supporting troops, and ensuring readiness in an increasingly unstable global environment.
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