quarta-feira, 22 de abril de 2026

White House rejects claim Trump sought nuclear codes

 


White House rejects claim Trump sought nuclear codes

The White House has denied an unverified claim that President Donald Trump sought to use U.S. nuclear codes during a tense meeting on the Iran crisis. The allegation, made by former CIA officer Larry Johnson, has not been corroborated by credible sources or officials. The dispute comes as the U.S.-Iran ceasefire nears its expiration, heightening tensions over potential military escalation.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/insight/general-reportedly-blocked-trump-from-using-nuclear-codes/gm-GMLEFEF1A2#:~:text=The%20White%20House%20has%20denied,out%20Military%20readiness%20under%20strain

 

Explosive claim sparks political storm

 

Nuclear command reality vs. rumor

 

Ceasefire clock running out

 

Military readiness under strain

 

Explosive claim sparks political storm

A viral allegation by former CIA officer Larry Johnson claimed President Trump tried to access nuclear codes during an emergency White House meeting on the Iran crisis. Johnson alleged that General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, refused the directive, leading to a heated confrontation. The White House has categorically denied the claim, and no credible outlet or official has verified that nuclear launch authority was ever invoked. Newsweek + 1

President Donald Trump listens in the Oval Office of the White House, Saturday, April 18, 2026, in Washington.

Newsweek

 

Nuclear command reality vs. rumor

Under U.S. Nuclear Command and Control protocols, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs serves as an advisor, not a commander, and a launch order requires verification from the Secretary of Defense. Experts note that a general simply refusing a lawful order would constitute a constitutional crisis. Senator Thom Tillis expressed skepticism, saying he could not imagine such a scenario being seriously considered. Newsweek

 

The U.S.-Iran ceasefire is set to expire on April 22, with President Trump signaling a hardline stance if talks fail. Trump previously warned on social media of catastrophic consequences, fueling concerns over nuclear rhetoric. The allegation’s timing adds to tensions as diplomatic efforts falter and Vice President Vance’s trip to Islamabad faces delays amid Iranian indecision. Axios World + 1

 

Military readiness under strain

The war with Iran has depleted U.S. missile stockpiles, with nearly half of key munitions like Precision Strike, THAAD, and Patriot missiles expended. Analysts warn this creates a near-term vulnerability, particularly against near-peer adversaries, with replenishment expected to take three to five years. While sufficient for ongoing operations against Iran, the shortfall limits flexibility in other theaters. CNN

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