Story perspectives

Chief of Staff Faces Backlash Over False Drinking Rumor

4/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

A report claims Ricky Buria, chief of staff to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, spread a rumor about Hegseth's drinking.
Sources say Buria fabricated a story about Hegseth going out drinking in disguises to test for leaks.
Insiders express concern that Buria's behavior creates drama and distractions for operations.
Pentagon Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson dismissed the rumors as false, citing Hegseth's commitment to military objectives and recruitment efforts.

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Story summary

A report claims Ricky Buria, chief of staff to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, spread a rumor about Hegseth's drinking.
Sources say Buria fabricated a story about Hegseth going out drinking in disguises to test for leaks.
Insiders express concern that Buria's behavior creates drama and distractions for operations.
Pentagon Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson dismissed the rumors as false, citing Hegseth's commitment to military objectives and recruitment efforts.