The Pentagon has announced that it is cutting all military training, fellowship, and certificate programs with Harvard University. The decision will take effect from the 2026–27 academic year. The move marks a sharp escalation in tensions between the US government and the Ivy League institution. Current military personnel studying at Harvard will be allowed to complete their courses. Future admissions under these programs will be stopped.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Harvard no longer meets the needs of the military. He accused the university of promoting what he described as “globalist and radical ideologies.” According to him, officers sent to Harvard returned with views that did not strengthen military readiness. In a social media post, he bluntly stated that Harvard is “woke” while the military is not.
The Pentagon said similar programs at other Ivy League universities will also be reviewed soon. The US military traditionally allows officers to pursue higher education at civilian institutions. These programs help officers gain broader exposure and improve career prospects after service. However, the administration now questions their value for national defense.
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The decision comes amid a long-running dispute between the Trump administration and Harvard. The White House has accused the university of tolerating anti-Jewish bias on campus. It has already cut billions of dollars in federal research funding and attempted to restrict Harvard from enrolling foreign students. Harvard has denied the allegations and challenged the actions in court.
Harvard has filed lawsuits against the administration, with federal judges ruling in its favor so far. The government is appealing those decisions. Tensions briefly eased when President Trump hinted at a possible deal, but talks collapsed. The administration has now demanded $1 billion from Harvard as a condition to restore funding.
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