Trump Orders Pentagon to Pay Troops Amid Ongoing Government Shutdown

U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that his administration has identified funds to ensure military personnel receive their paychecks despite the ongoing federal government shutdown. In a Truth Social post, Trump said he directed Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth to use all available resources to pay troops on October 15, emphasizing his authority as Commander in Chief to make the move.

“We have identified funds to do this, and Secretary Hegseth will use them to PAY OUR TROOPS,” Trump wrote. However, the president did not provide details on the amount of money or the specific sources of the funds. The White House and the Pentagon have both declined to elaborate, referring inquiries to the Office of Management and Budget.

The announcement comes as the shutdown enters its 11th day, triggered by a budget standoff between the Republican-led Congress and minority Democrats. Although Republicans control both the House and Senate, they still require at least seven Democratic votes in the Senate to pass a spending bill. Democrats have withheld support, insisting that any funding measure include provisions to maintain and expand healthcare subsidies under the Affordable Care Act.

Trump accused Democrats of “holding the military hostage” over their healthcare demands, vowing not to let national security suffer amid political disagreements. He also signaled a willingness to negotiate on healthcare once the government reopens.

Meanwhile, the effects of the shutdown have intensified. Thousands of federal workers began facing layoffs on Friday as the impasse dragged on. In response, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries summoned party members back to Washington for a meeting on Tuesday to strategize a response to what he termed the “Republican shutdown” and its healthcare consequences.

As the standoff continues, pressure mounts on both parties to find a compromise that will reopen the government and restore stability to federal operations.