'Below the dignity of the office': Canadian officials condemn Pete Hegseth cadet post

Canadian officials and organizations are condemning US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for apparent online mockery of members of Canada's cadet program. The Army Cadet League of Canada issued a statement strongly condemning any harassment or mockery of cadets' achievements, calling derogatory commentary toward youth unacceptable. Canada's top military commander, General Jennie Carignan, stated they are consulting with the affected cadets on how they wish to proceed. Conservative Member of Parliament Scott Anderson criticized Hegseth for not upholding the responsibilities of his office and for intentionally shaming two female Canadian non-combatants. Anderson expressed his disapproval of Hegseth's actions, highlighting the intertwined relationship between Canada and the United States.

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth is facing significant criticism for a social media post on X that appeared to body-shame members of a Canadian youth development program. The post, made on Monday night, featured a photograph of two individuals in uniform with a Canadian flag and the caption "this is real," which critics interpreted as an attempt to mock Canada's armed forces amidst a trade dispute. However, the photograph was sourced from the Vernon Cadet Training Centre, a program for teenagers learning adult skills, not from the front-line military. Canadian officials, including Prime Minister Mark Carney, and former US Congressman Adam Kinzinger condemned the post as inappropriate and disrespectful, particularly given the subjects were youth. The Pentagon defended Hegseth's post, stating it "speaks for itself."