Story perspectives

OpenAI's Altman Defends Pentagon Ties Amid Ethical Backlash

3/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman told employees OpenAI does not influence how the Pentagon uses its artificial intelligence (AI) products in military operations.
Altman said employees cannot weigh in on military decisions, citing Pentagon's demand for fewer safety measures in AI.
Anthropic rejected a Pentagon deal over ethical concerns, prompting backlash against OpenAI for its agreement, and Anthropic's CEO criticized Altman for ties to U.S. President Donald Trump.

1 of 1

Story summary

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman told employees OpenAI does not influence how the Pentagon uses its artificial intelligence (AI) products in military operations.
Altman said employees cannot weigh in on military decisions, citing Pentagon's demand for fewer safety measures in AI.
Anthropic rejected a Pentagon deal over ethical concerns, prompting backlash against OpenAI for its agreement, and Anthropic's CEO criticized Altman for ties to U.S. President Donald Trump.