The Gateway Pundit (TGP) reports that Axios, citing Pentagon records from an internal investigation, said Army Lt. Gen. Brett Sylvia admitted to leaking classified information about the wars in Iran and Russia–Ukraine to reporters over roughly a year beginning as early as June 2025.
What the internal records allegedly show
According to TGP’s account of Axios’ reporting on Pentagon documents, Sylvia acknowledged sharing classified details with at least two reporters from different outlets. In one instance described in those records, TGP says Sylvia met a reporter at a diner in Arlington, Virginia and, using notes from reviewing a Secret report, orally relayed redacted details on U.S. assistance to Ukraine. TGP adds that the reporter’s Pentagon access had been revoked and that Sylvia did not coordinate the meeting with the Pentagon’s Public Affairs Office or seek review before providing information.
Firing and criminal referral
TGP previously reported that “War Secretary” Pete Hegseth removed Sylvia from his role as director of the Directorate for Strategy, Plans, and Policy at the Joint Chiefs of Staff for “severe misconduct,” including alleged classified leaks tied to the Iran and Russia–Ukraine wars, citing a Department of “War” official. TGP also reported the matter was referred to the Department of Justice and that the investigation remains ongoing.
Pentagon’s public statement
When asked for comment, TGP says the Pentagon pointed to a social media statement from Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell on Oct. 29, 2026. Parnell wrote that the department has “zero tolerance for the intentional, unauthorized disclosure of classified information,” said that “following an extensive Air Force OSI investigation” necessary personnel action was taken, and noted the matter had been referred to the Justice Department. He added, “To protect the integrity of the investigation, no further comment will be made regarding the individual or the circumstances of this action.”
Anonymous criticism claim
TGP further reports that the internal records state Sylvia “admitted to being one of the 20 officials” who anonymously attacked Pentagon leadership under Hegseth and President Trump. Daily Allegiant has not reviewed the records or Axios’ report.
What’s not yet clear
No charging documents were cited in the materials TGP described. Parnell’s statement did not name Sylvia. The Justice Department referral and the investigation’s status beyond what TGP reported remain unspecified.
