Criticism grows over US Defence Secretarys lack of transparency about hospital visit

Published: 08 January 2024 at 12:56

Politics

US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin is facing criticism for not being transparent about his hospital visit, as his deputy Kathleen Hicks was not informed until four days after he entered intensive care. Austin resumed his full duties on Friday, but questions have been raised about the secrecy surrounding his medical situation. It was revealed that he underwent an elective medical procedure on 22 December, experienced severe pain on 1 January, and was admitted to the hospital. The lack of disclosure has raised concerns about transparency and the chain of command within the US military.