Donald Trump officials have reportedly fired over 300 staffers without realizing they oversee entire US weapon stockpile
The recent firing of National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) employees has raised concerns, as some played key roles in the U.S. nuclear deterrent program.
On February 13, reports claimed over 300 staff members were dismissed. However, a Department of Energy spokesperson stated the actual number was under 50, mostly in administrative roles.
The NNSA oversees the nation’s nuclear stockpile, making these firings particularly alarming. A source told CNN that Trump officials seemed unaware of the agency’s role. Some of those dismissed were responsible for overseeing nuclear weapon production, managing contractors, and ensuring compliance with safety guidelines.
An anonymous source suggested these firings happened because leadership failed to grasp the importance of their work. In a surprising reversal, some terminations were rescinded the next day. Acting NNSA Administrator Teresa Robbins clarified that probationary employees, typically with less than one or two years of experience, would retain their jobs if not already fired.
A congressional source told CNN that lawmakers were shocked, emphasizing that even minor disruptions in nuclear oversight pose serious national security risks.
The Trump administration and the Department of Energy have been contacted for comment.