1 00:00:05,700 --> 00:00:06,763 - Good afternoon. 2 00:00:12,470 --> 00:00:16,370 First, I want to extend our condolences to the loved ones 3 00:00:16,730 --> 00:00:18,350 of the nine crew members who died 4 00:00:18,350 --> 00:00:21,963 in a C-130 crash yesterday in Savannah, Georgia. 5 00:00:22,830 --> 00:00:24,680 I also want to share our thoughts and prayers 6 00:00:24,680 --> 00:00:27,230 with the family, friends and comrades 7 00:00:27,230 --> 00:00:32,163 of Specialist Gabriel Conde of Loveland, Colorado. 8 00:00:33,340 --> 00:00:36,310 Specialist Conde was killed in action on April 30th 9 00:00:36,720 --> 00:00:40,193 as a result of enemy small arms fire in Afghanistan. 10 00:00:40,990 --> 00:00:43,500 These deaths are a somber reminder 11 00:00:43,500 --> 00:00:46,120 of the tremendous risk our servicemen 12 00:00:46,160 --> 00:00:48,970 and women take everyday to defend our nation 13 00:00:49,300 --> 00:00:50,413 at home and abroad. 14 00:00:52,690 --> 00:00:56,310 Yesterday, Secretary Mattis hosted Secretary of State Pompeo 15 00:00:56,580 --> 00:00:59,650 and National Security Advisor Bolton at the Pentagon 16 00:00:59,700 --> 00:01:01,323 for an early morning breakfast. 17 00:01:01,920 --> 00:01:04,060 This is the beginning of a rhythm for the three leaders 18 00:01:04,060 --> 00:01:05,483 to engage regularly. 19 00:01:06,050 --> 00:01:07,930 They are committed to forging a close 20 00:01:07,930 --> 00:01:10,820 and continuous relationship to collaborate 21 00:01:10,820 --> 00:01:13,853 and carry out the president's National Security agenda. 22 00:01:14,740 --> 00:01:17,290 Following breakfast, Secretary Mattis departed 23 00:01:17,290 --> 00:01:19,573 on travel back home to Washington state. 24 00:01:20,300 --> 00:01:23,090 Today, he will speak at the Tri-citian 25 00:01:23,300 --> 00:01:24,923 of the Year award ceremony. 26 00:01:25,280 --> 00:01:28,393 He will emphasize the importance of community service, 27 00:01:28,630 --> 00:01:31,180 highlighting how Americans look out for each other 28 00:01:31,530 --> 00:01:33,980 and work together to make our communities better. 29 00:01:34,880 --> 00:01:37,830 He will also underscore America's fundamental unity 30 00:01:38,130 --> 00:01:40,863 and the importance of service before self. 31 00:01:41,830 --> 00:01:43,920 On Saturday, Secretary Mattis will attend 32 00:01:43,920 --> 00:01:48,163 the Columbia Basin College Veterans public forum. 33 00:01:48,700 --> 00:01:51,540 The purpose of the forum is to give tri-city veterans 34 00:01:51,540 --> 00:01:53,650 and their families an opportunity 35 00:01:53,650 --> 00:01:57,300 to hear from him and ask questions of Secretary Mattis 36 00:01:57,480 --> 00:01:58,830 regarding matters of concern, 37 00:01:58,830 --> 00:02:01,240 especially the civilian-military relationship 38 00:02:01,640 --> 00:02:03,450 and the challenges and opportunities 39 00:02:03,680 --> 00:02:05,880 veterans encounter during the transition 40 00:02:06,160 --> 00:02:08,233 from military to civilian life. 41 00:02:09,640 --> 00:02:12,400 On cyber command, last week the Senate confirmed 42 00:02:12,400 --> 00:02:14,410 Lieutenant General Nakasone 43 00:02:14,410 --> 00:02:16,473 to be the next Chief of CYBERCOM. 44 00:02:16,840 --> 00:02:18,820 The change of command ceremony is tomorrow 45 00:02:18,820 --> 00:02:22,100 at the Integrated Cyber Center/Joint Operations Center 46 00:02:22,100 --> 00:02:23,113 at Fort Meade. 47 00:02:23,810 --> 00:02:25,990 Deputy Secretary of Defense, Pat Shanahan, 48 00:02:25,990 --> 00:02:29,483 will preside over the CYBERCOM portion of the ceremony. 49 00:02:30,270 --> 00:02:33,260 General Nakasone will play a critical role 50 00:02:33,260 --> 00:02:35,680 in everything from training our cyber warriors 51 00:02:35,730 --> 00:02:39,100 and advocating for more cyber security resources 52 00:02:39,360 --> 00:02:42,623 to planning and conducting cyber operations. 53 00:02:43,610 --> 00:02:46,630 This change of command is noteworthy because it signifies 54 00:02:46,630 --> 00:02:48,750 the elevation of cyber command 55 00:02:48,750 --> 00:02:50,963 as our tenth combatant command. 56 00:02:51,410 --> 00:02:53,780 Last year, Secretary Mattis announced the elevation 57 00:02:53,780 --> 00:02:55,700 of cyber command, acknowledging 58 00:02:55,700 --> 00:02:58,803 that a new war fighting domain has come of age. 59 00:02:59,460 --> 00:03:02,843 The cyber domain will define the next century of warfare. 60 00:03:04,270 --> 00:03:06,860 Just as our military must be prepared to defend our nation 61 00:03:06,860 --> 00:03:09,983 against hostile acts from land, air and sea, 62 00:03:10,240 --> 00:03:13,733 we must also be prepared to deter and if necessary, 63 00:03:13,940 --> 00:03:16,913 respond to hostile acts in cyberspace. 64 00:03:17,210 --> 00:03:19,700 With that, I'll take you questions. Adris! 65 00:03:21,500 --> 00:03:23,037 - [Adris] I'll begin with Afghanistan. 66 00:03:23,037 --> 00:03:25,580 The past few weeks have been particularly bloody 67 00:03:25,920 --> 00:03:28,983 for the country, what's your assessment of the ANDSF 68 00:03:29,260 --> 00:03:30,660 and how they're progressing? 69 00:03:30,900 --> 00:03:32,460 'Cause, I'm sure you've seen, the SIGAR report, 70 00:03:32,460 --> 00:03:34,840 which shows a sharp drop in their numbers 71 00:03:34,890 --> 00:03:35,840 over the past year. 72 00:03:38,120 --> 00:03:41,190 - So, what I would say is that we're working by, 73 00:03:41,190 --> 00:03:43,503 with and through our partners. 74 00:03:44,530 --> 00:03:46,780 But, as the Secretary said earlier this week, 75 00:03:48,450 --> 00:03:50,343 these are desperate attempts. 76 00:03:51,520 --> 00:03:56,150 We have to remember that our goal is to force the enemy 77 00:03:56,200 --> 00:03:58,283 to a political solution. 78 00:03:59,800 --> 00:04:04,343 And we're going to do that but the enemy gets a vote. 79 00:04:05,340 --> 00:04:06,590 We will continue to work, 80 00:04:06,960 --> 00:04:09,950 we're there to stand with the Afghan government 81 00:04:10,480 --> 00:04:14,723 and this will happen. 82 00:04:15,440 --> 00:04:18,010 This isn't easy, but we're committed 83 00:04:18,010 --> 00:04:21,063 to ensure that there's ultimately a political solution. 84 00:04:21,382 --> 00:04:23,740 - Satisfied with the progress that the ANDSF is making 85 00:04:23,740 --> 00:04:25,100 or are you looking at making changes 86 00:04:25,100 --> 00:04:27,923 to the way they're developed and they're trained? 87 00:04:28,630 --> 00:04:30,870 - Right now, we are satisfied 88 00:04:30,870 --> 00:04:34,380 that we are working very hard alongside our NATO partners 89 00:04:34,620 --> 00:04:37,180 to ensure that they get the training necessary to ensure 90 00:04:37,180 --> 00:04:40,430 that they can, ultimately, they take the fight 91 00:04:40,600 --> 00:04:43,410 to the enemy and then push this to, 92 00:04:43,410 --> 00:04:45,733 ultimately, a political solution. 93 00:04:47,000 --> 00:04:47,833 Jennifer. 94 00:04:49,304 --> 00:04:52,370 - Can you respond to reports that Chinese military personnel 95 00:04:52,370 --> 00:04:57,370 have used lasers to, in fact, effect U.S. military planes 96 00:04:57,400 --> 00:05:01,450 in Djibouti and how serious were these incidents, 97 00:05:01,450 --> 00:05:04,880 how often is it happening, what message do you have 98 00:05:04,900 --> 00:05:08,923 to the Chinese, at this moment, regarding that? 99 00:05:09,000 --> 00:05:12,543 - Sure, so, they are very serious incidents, 100 00:05:12,611 --> 00:05:15,783 there have been two minor injuries. 101 00:05:16,900 --> 00:05:20,823 This activity poses a true threat to our airmen. 102 00:05:21,720 --> 00:05:25,170 We have formally démarched the Chinese government 103 00:05:26,900 --> 00:05:27,733 and we have requested 104 00:05:27,733 --> 00:05:30,823 that the Chinese investigate these incidents. 105 00:05:31,660 --> 00:05:34,540 - Just to follow up, the Chinese have also put some 106 00:05:35,130 --> 00:05:40,130 surface-to-air missiles and cruise missiles on the Spratlys, 107 00:05:40,180 --> 00:05:44,510 I believe it is, out of, in um, in uh... 108 00:05:45,240 --> 00:05:47,853 Yeah, sorry, Spratlys, I'm sorry? 109 00:05:48,678 --> 00:05:49,770 - South China Sea. - South China Sea, 110 00:05:49,770 --> 00:05:52,720 but what is your reaction to that, 111 00:05:52,720 --> 00:05:54,313 they installed them recently, 112 00:05:55,890 --> 00:05:57,587 what will the U.S do about 'em? 113 00:05:58,050 --> 00:06:02,090 - Well, we've been very vocal about our concerns 114 00:06:02,090 --> 00:06:06,543 about them militarizing in these artificial islands. 115 00:06:07,930 --> 00:06:10,650 China has to realize that they've benefited 116 00:06:10,650 --> 00:06:13,000 from the free navigation of the sea 117 00:06:13,410 --> 00:06:15,860 and the U.S. Navy has been the guarantor of that. 118 00:06:16,320 --> 00:06:20,590 We will continue to do our operations 119 00:06:20,590 --> 00:06:24,510 and ensure that the Chinese understand that they cannot 120 00:06:26,620 --> 00:06:30,020 and should not be hostile 121 00:06:30,470 --> 00:06:34,980 and understand that the Pacific is a place 122 00:06:34,980 --> 00:06:37,040 in which much commerce goes through 123 00:06:37,220 --> 00:06:39,400 and it's in their interest to ensure 124 00:06:39,630 --> 00:06:42,883 that there's the free navigation of international waters. 125 00:06:43,586 --> 00:06:44,516 - Marsh for a plan, 126 00:06:44,516 --> 00:06:46,700 did they marsh them for this edition 127 00:06:46,700 --> 00:06:48,070 of the anti-ship cruise missiles 128 00:06:48,070 --> 00:06:49,270 and surface-to-air missiles? 129 00:06:49,270 --> 00:06:50,430 - I'm not aware of any marsh 130 00:06:50,430 --> 00:06:52,380 but I would have to refer you to state. 131 00:06:53,500 --> 00:06:54,773 Right here in the middle. 132 00:06:54,773 --> 00:06:57,960 - Congress appears ready to become involved in the review 133 00:06:57,960 --> 00:07:00,810 of the aviation mishaps, yesterday, Congressman Turner 134 00:07:00,810 --> 00:07:03,230 put out a statement saying he's not certain 135 00:07:03,230 --> 00:07:05,050 the service branches are adequately 136 00:07:05,050 --> 00:07:07,780 identifying the source and causes fast enough 137 00:07:07,780 --> 00:07:09,543 of the crashes to remedy them. 138 00:07:09,800 --> 00:07:13,320 Do you think a department-wide review is warranted 139 00:07:13,350 --> 00:07:16,110 at this point, something the SecDef would run, 140 00:07:16,110 --> 00:07:19,110 instead of having individual service branches investigating? 141 00:07:21,270 --> 00:07:23,670 - I would tell you that each of these incidents, 142 00:07:24,100 --> 00:07:27,240 each service takes very seriously, each one is unique 143 00:07:28,030 --> 00:07:29,270 and the services are the lead 144 00:07:29,270 --> 00:07:31,880 and Secretary has the utmost confidence 145 00:07:32,140 --> 00:07:34,730 in service leadership to ensure 146 00:07:34,930 --> 00:07:36,790 that whatever steps are taken 147 00:07:36,790 --> 00:07:39,100 and that they have thorough investigation 148 00:07:39,100 --> 00:07:41,560 because one incident is too much and we have to ensure 149 00:07:41,560 --> 00:07:42,760 that we learn from them. 150 00:07:44,640 --> 00:07:47,370 So, ultimately, these are service responsibilities 151 00:07:47,370 --> 00:07:49,270 but know that the Secretary of Defense 152 00:07:49,706 --> 00:07:53,040 will hold everyone accountable to ensure 153 00:07:53,040 --> 00:07:55,480 that we learn what we can to ensure 154 00:07:55,720 --> 00:07:57,250 that we prevent any other incidents. 155 00:07:57,250 --> 00:08:00,086 - So, no discussion yet of a holistic review, 156 00:08:00,086 --> 00:08:00,919 a department-wide review? - There, 157 00:08:00,919 --> 00:08:02,490 I'm not aware any discussions 158 00:08:02,590 --> 00:08:05,083 about any department-wide review. 159 00:08:06,290 --> 00:08:07,123 Ryan. 160 00:08:07,330 --> 00:08:08,210 - Just one on North Korea 161 00:08:08,210 --> 00:08:09,810 and one on the border, if I may. 162 00:08:10,290 --> 00:08:12,360 On North Korea, on the Korea situation, 163 00:08:12,360 --> 00:08:14,430 there was a report last week saying 164 00:08:14,430 --> 00:08:17,640 that the president discussed a full withdrawal 165 00:08:17,640 --> 00:08:21,390 of U.S. military personnel from the Korean Peninsula, 166 00:08:21,390 --> 00:08:22,700 in February, I believe it was, 167 00:08:22,700 --> 00:08:25,340 is there any, has the Pentagon received any instruction 168 00:08:25,340 --> 00:08:28,193 to plan for that or take that seriously? 169 00:08:28,540 --> 00:08:31,276 And then I have a follow on the border, if that's okay. 170 00:08:31,276 --> 00:08:34,230 - The department has not gotten any word on that, 171 00:08:34,230 --> 00:08:36,197 our posture remains the same 172 00:08:36,470 --> 00:08:38,070 - Great, and then on the border, 173 00:08:38,370 --> 00:08:42,380 I believe it's request from the Customs and Border Patrol 174 00:08:42,380 --> 00:08:46,910 for about 2,000 personnel to cost about $182 million 175 00:08:46,924 --> 00:08:49,713 for the Securing the Southern Border Operation. 176 00:08:50,550 --> 00:08:53,150 Where is that money, can you confirm that number 177 00:08:53,150 --> 00:08:56,563 as being true and where is that money going to come from? 178 00:08:56,880 --> 00:09:00,310 - So, I can confirm that that is the estimated cost 179 00:09:00,310 --> 00:09:04,940 for what has been promised thus far, which is about half 180 00:09:05,230 --> 00:09:08,690 or so, as the 182 million and that money is coming 181 00:09:08,690 --> 00:09:11,883 from the guards ONM and as well as personnel, 182 00:09:12,040 --> 00:09:13,533 military personnel accounts. 183 00:09:13,808 --> 00:09:14,641 - And are there any concerns 184 00:09:14,641 --> 00:09:17,950 that taking money out of ONM could effect readiness 185 00:09:17,950 --> 00:09:18,783 of those forces? 186 00:09:19,060 --> 00:09:22,023 - Right now, that is not a concern. 187 00:09:22,420 --> 00:09:26,550 Again, these are funds that are for training 188 00:09:26,740 --> 00:09:29,203 and so we'll use them. 189 00:09:29,290 --> 00:09:30,123 At this time, 190 00:09:30,123 --> 00:09:31,570 there are no concerns. - Thank you. 191 00:09:31,570 --> 00:09:32,430 - Joe in the back. 192 00:09:32,430 --> 00:09:34,230 - Thank you so much, I would like to ask you 193 00:09:34,230 --> 00:09:35,730 if you could give us an update 194 00:09:35,847 --> 00:09:39,800 about the current SDF operations against ISIS 195 00:09:39,800 --> 00:09:43,223 in Eastern Syria and also if the Pentagon, 196 00:09:43,520 --> 00:09:45,973 if you have any information about the size of, 197 00:09:46,410 --> 00:09:49,450 how many ISIS militants are left 198 00:09:49,450 --> 00:09:54,450 in the area close to Bukamal, near the Iraqi border. 199 00:09:55,428 --> 00:09:58,080 The last numbers we heard from the Pentagon 200 00:09:58,080 --> 00:10:02,053 was around 3,000, is this number still accurate? 201 00:10:03,800 --> 00:10:05,400 - I'll have to come back to you, 202 00:10:05,570 --> 00:10:06,850 with respect to the exact number, 203 00:10:06,850 --> 00:10:08,800 obviously, this is a dynamic situation. 204 00:10:08,850 --> 00:10:10,800 I will tell you that we are encouraged by the fact 205 00:10:10,800 --> 00:10:15,800 that the SDF has resumed active, offensive activities 206 00:10:19,530 --> 00:10:23,853 with respect to the MERV, so that is a welcome change. 207 00:10:24,390 --> 00:10:26,620 And in the second part, I will come back to you 208 00:10:26,620 --> 00:10:29,800 about particular numbers but the fight continues on 209 00:10:29,950 --> 00:10:33,110 and so I think it's very important that we recognize 210 00:10:33,110 --> 00:10:35,303 that the SDF has become reengaged, 211 00:10:35,870 --> 00:10:38,540 so, that we can finally finish 212 00:10:38,610 --> 00:10:40,533 what is left of ISIS in Syria. 213 00:10:41,093 --> 00:10:44,533 - In regards to the U.S. changed mission in Iraq, 214 00:10:44,750 --> 00:10:48,093 what's the current size of U.S. troops in Iraq right now? 215 00:10:48,768 --> 00:10:51,873 - So, the number remains around, 216 00:10:52,080 --> 00:10:57,080 our numbers in Iraq are about 5,000. 217 00:10:58,159 --> 00:10:59,440 Let me... 218 00:10:59,720 --> 00:11:00,753 - [Man] Syria and Iran? 219 00:11:00,820 --> 00:11:01,653 - He said Iraq, 220 00:11:01,653 --> 00:11:03,820 you said in Iraq. - No, right, you're right. 221 00:11:03,820 --> 00:11:07,883 - So, that's where we are, it changes, 222 00:11:08,120 --> 00:11:09,000 it's approximately that. 223 00:11:09,000 --> 00:11:11,923 - Do you know if this number is going to decreased? 224 00:11:13,520 --> 00:11:14,650 - The number is approximate, 225 00:11:14,650 --> 00:11:16,253 as we've said in the past, 226 00:11:16,440 --> 00:11:19,540 that the composition of those forces will change, 227 00:11:19,540 --> 00:11:21,290 they may go up and they may go down 228 00:11:21,550 --> 00:11:24,380 but the approximate number is still the 5,000. 229 00:11:24,380 --> 00:11:25,280 - [Joe] Thank you. 230 00:11:26,340 --> 00:11:27,173 - Hans. 231 00:11:27,173 --> 00:11:29,010 - [Hans] If I can just go back to the laser incidents 232 00:11:29,010 --> 00:11:32,440 in Djibouti, how confident are you that it's the Chinese 233 00:11:32,440 --> 00:11:33,800 that are pointing these lasers 234 00:11:33,800 --> 00:11:35,890 and you said two with minor injuries, 235 00:11:35,890 --> 00:11:37,230 could you give us an overall total 236 00:11:37,230 --> 00:11:38,993 of how many incidents there have been? 237 00:11:38,993 --> 00:11:40,200 - I don't have a total number 238 00:11:40,200 --> 00:11:44,483 but I will tell you those were two minor injuries. 239 00:11:45,570 --> 00:11:48,230 It's enough that we're concerned that we démarched them, 240 00:11:48,230 --> 00:11:50,680 so, and we've asked them to investigate it. 241 00:11:50,680 --> 00:11:54,310 It's a serious matter and so, we're taking it seriously. 242 00:11:54,310 --> 00:11:56,613 - And you're confident that it's Chinese nationals 243 00:11:56,613 --> 00:11:57,446 that are doing this? 244 00:11:57,446 --> 00:11:59,790 - We're confident. Tom. 245 00:11:59,790 --> 00:12:02,590 - I'd like to follow up on that, as well, Jennifer's um, 246 00:12:02,860 --> 00:12:05,870 two questions, one, and this is not being snarky, 247 00:12:05,870 --> 00:12:07,123 despite my reputation, 248 00:12:07,460 --> 00:12:09,290 what does minor injuries mean, 249 00:12:09,290 --> 00:12:11,240 is that anything like slightly pregnant 250 00:12:11,380 --> 00:12:15,853 or and also, could you refresh our memory, my memory anyway, 251 00:12:16,020 --> 00:12:19,840 on the objections the Pentagon may have placed 252 00:12:20,170 --> 00:12:21,610 with the Djibouti government 253 00:12:21,910 --> 00:12:23,410 when China announced it wanted 254 00:12:25,210 --> 00:12:29,283 to locate it's first overseas base near the U.S. base. 255 00:12:31,440 --> 00:12:33,820 - With respect to the two minor injuries, 256 00:12:33,820 --> 00:12:36,670 I will have to come back to you on the specifics of that. 257 00:12:36,670 --> 00:12:41,670 In terms of objections, these are sovereign questions. 258 00:12:42,790 --> 00:12:44,920 The Djibouti government is free to work 259 00:12:44,920 --> 00:12:46,503 with who they want to. 260 00:12:46,560 --> 00:12:49,510 Our concern is the safety of our service members 261 00:12:49,650 --> 00:12:51,740 and so, we have raised the issue with China, 262 00:12:51,740 --> 00:12:54,570 we expect China to investigate it thoroughly. 263 00:12:54,570 --> 00:12:55,403 - [Tom] Thanks. 264 00:12:55,610 --> 00:12:57,231 - Goyal. - Thank you madam. 265 00:12:57,231 --> 00:12:59,862 Two questions please, one, what is the future 266 00:12:59,862 --> 00:13:02,755 of two-plus-two between U.S. and India, 267 00:13:02,755 --> 00:13:05,172 it was canceled or postponed? 268 00:13:06,226 --> 00:13:10,057 - It was postponed and so we will work with State 269 00:13:10,290 --> 00:13:13,552 now that Secretary Pompeo is in the seat 270 00:13:13,552 --> 00:13:17,290 to look to reschedule that in the near future. 271 00:13:17,290 --> 00:13:21,343 - And second question, as far as going back to Afghanistan, 272 00:13:22,250 --> 00:13:25,430 bombings keep going on there and people are still scared 273 00:13:25,620 --> 00:13:28,673 and they don't know what is their future in Afghanistan. 274 00:13:28,900 --> 00:13:31,940 So, my question is that Afghan government 275 00:13:31,940 --> 00:13:34,282 and people keep still blaming Pakistan 276 00:13:34,282 --> 00:13:36,380 as far as terrorist activities are concerned there. 277 00:13:36,380 --> 00:13:38,330 How much, now, you think Pakistan 278 00:13:38,330 --> 00:13:41,593 is cooperating with U.S. in Afghanistan? 279 00:13:44,809 --> 00:13:47,872 - In Afghanistan, one, we have to remember 280 00:13:47,872 --> 00:13:50,273 that the Taliban and ISIS, 281 00:13:51,670 --> 00:13:54,880 their motive is to scare people, it's fear 282 00:13:55,440 --> 00:13:58,473 and they are purposely targeting voting registration. 283 00:14:00,250 --> 00:14:02,943 That is what they're doing in order to ensure, 284 00:14:03,090 --> 00:14:07,083 because they can't win at the ballot box. 285 00:14:07,480 --> 00:14:09,983 So, with respect to Pakistan, 286 00:14:10,340 --> 00:14:12,363 we have opportunities with Pakistan, 287 00:14:12,500 --> 00:14:15,570 we think Pakistan can do more and we'll look to them 288 00:14:15,810 --> 00:14:18,170 and work with them to find opportunities 289 00:14:18,290 --> 00:14:20,383 to further regional security. 290 00:14:20,980 --> 00:14:23,130 - And madam, do you have any new directions 291 00:14:23,287 --> 00:14:26,240 as far as Afghanistan is concerns to bring the situation 292 00:14:26,570 --> 00:14:30,427 under control compared in the past, anything new? 293 00:14:32,560 --> 00:14:35,593 - We've been dong this for nearly 17 years. 294 00:14:36,200 --> 00:14:38,570 This is not an easy part of the world 295 00:14:40,180 --> 00:14:41,283 but we are committed. 296 00:14:42,430 --> 00:14:43,910 The president showed his commitment 297 00:14:43,910 --> 00:14:46,063 by announcing the South Asia strategy. 298 00:14:46,890 --> 00:14:49,290 We have regional partners who are leaning in 299 00:14:49,290 --> 00:14:51,790 to include India to help 300 00:14:52,120 --> 00:14:55,380 and so we will continue to work by, with and through 301 00:14:55,380 --> 00:14:59,060 our partners to secure the area 302 00:14:59,060 --> 00:15:02,860 but we are here to help the Afghan government stand up 303 00:15:03,150 --> 00:15:04,933 and secure their own territory, 304 00:15:05,010 --> 00:15:06,013 that's our role. 305 00:15:06,390 --> 00:15:08,629 - I was going to ask as far as the role of India, 306 00:15:08,629 --> 00:15:11,129 what role do you think you want India to play now? 307 00:15:11,500 --> 00:15:15,183 - We'll continue to want India, developmental help, 308 00:15:15,460 --> 00:15:17,970 diplomatic support as well. - Thank you. 309 00:15:17,970 --> 00:15:18,803 - Tom. 310 00:15:18,900 --> 00:15:21,447 - How many U.S. troops are there in Saudi Arabia? 311 00:15:22,400 --> 00:15:23,700 - I don't have the exact number 312 00:15:23,700 --> 00:15:28,060 but, as you know, the United States has had a long history 313 00:15:28,060 --> 00:15:30,353 of mil-to-mil relationship with Saudi. 314 00:15:30,950 --> 00:15:34,680 We have a number of forces that are there, 315 00:15:34,680 --> 00:15:35,623 who are helping. 316 00:15:35,860 --> 00:15:38,933 We've talked about, in the past, about refueling, 317 00:15:39,900 --> 00:15:42,693 with logistics, with intel sharing, 318 00:15:43,480 --> 00:15:46,830 that support continues, that support is focused 319 00:15:46,830 --> 00:15:49,303 on border, helping them secure their border. 320 00:15:49,420 --> 00:15:50,690 - [Tom] Why wasn't the deployment 321 00:15:50,690 --> 00:15:53,513 of Green Berets discussed, announced publicly? 322 00:15:54,750 --> 00:15:56,790 - As is policy, we don't discuss 323 00:15:56,790 --> 00:15:59,913 the different compositions of our forces. Tara. 324 00:16:01,240 --> 00:16:04,050 - Thanks Dana, on Monday, Secretary Mattis came and spoke 325 00:16:04,050 --> 00:16:07,720 to us and said that he had sent direction to the services 326 00:16:07,720 --> 00:16:10,010 to look at the number of military spouses, 327 00:16:10,010 --> 00:16:13,317 potentially, that are facing deportation hearings 328 00:16:13,317 --> 00:16:15,210 or deportation fears. 329 00:16:15,210 --> 00:16:17,390 However, we've heard from the services 330 00:16:17,390 --> 00:16:19,583 that no such direction was received. 331 00:16:20,510 --> 00:16:23,360 Can you confirm that he did direct the services 332 00:16:23,360 --> 00:16:25,520 and whether that took the form of a memo 333 00:16:25,520 --> 00:16:27,483 or was that informal, just verbal, 334 00:16:28,170 --> 00:16:30,030 how extensive is the scope 335 00:16:30,180 --> 00:16:33,043 of looking into this issue going to be? 336 00:16:33,640 --> 00:16:38,180 - The secretary has directed that, I will have to check 337 00:16:38,180 --> 00:16:39,410 if there's an actual memo, 338 00:16:39,410 --> 00:16:41,463 he did just speak to you on Monday. 339 00:16:42,670 --> 00:16:46,763 But there is a policy in place, there's parole in place, 340 00:16:46,890 --> 00:16:49,870 and that allows military spouses to stay, 341 00:16:49,870 --> 00:16:52,570 as well as other dependents, it's only contingent 342 00:16:52,570 --> 00:16:57,143 on criminal investigations, so, there is a policy in place. 343 00:16:57,220 --> 00:16:59,110 With respect to the exact number 344 00:16:59,110 --> 00:17:01,500 and whether or not the services have provided 345 00:17:01,500 --> 00:17:02,873 that to the front office, 346 00:17:02,880 --> 00:17:04,660 I'll come back to you about that, Tara. 347 00:17:04,660 --> 00:17:07,820 - Okay, and similarly the U.S. Citizenship 348 00:17:07,820 --> 00:17:11,180 and Immigration Services released their quarterly data, 349 00:17:11,180 --> 00:17:14,590 the first set of data since the October 2017 memo 350 00:17:14,880 --> 00:17:17,480 that Mattis put out with the increased security screening 351 00:17:17,480 --> 00:17:19,650 for potential non-citizen soldiers 352 00:17:19,650 --> 00:17:21,140 who want to be naturalized 353 00:17:21,590 --> 00:17:25,303 and the naturalization numbers are down 65% since the memo, 354 00:17:25,860 --> 00:17:28,260 both in applicants and people that have been approved. 355 00:17:28,260 --> 00:17:31,480 Do you think this is just maybe a bureaucratic thing, 356 00:17:31,480 --> 00:17:34,090 where it's new procedures in place 357 00:17:34,090 --> 00:17:35,653 because of enhanced screening, 358 00:17:36,370 --> 00:17:38,720 is it the department's intent to continue 359 00:17:38,931 --> 00:17:41,600 to recruit non-citizen soldiers who fought 360 00:17:41,600 --> 00:17:43,140 for the nation for decades? 361 00:17:43,140 --> 00:17:46,260 - It's still our intent to recruit every patriot 362 00:17:46,300 --> 00:17:48,880 who's qualified to serve but, yes, 363 00:17:48,880 --> 00:17:50,363 with the enhanced vetting, 364 00:17:50,630 --> 00:17:55,023 there is a process and that process has to move forward, 365 00:17:55,100 --> 00:17:58,277 so, there may be a bit of a delay because of that, 366 00:17:58,277 --> 00:18:00,180 but we also need to ensure, 367 00:18:00,180 --> 00:18:03,683 because we did identify a security problem, 368 00:18:03,870 --> 00:18:07,270 we do need to ensure that we vet these people thoroughly. 369 00:18:08,170 --> 00:18:09,003 Way in the back. 370 00:18:09,868 --> 00:18:11,740 - Just want to get a clarification 371 00:18:11,740 --> 00:18:14,463 on a department statement regarding Guantanamo. 372 00:18:15,450 --> 00:18:17,076 The statement said that the secretary 373 00:18:17,076 --> 00:18:19,280 had passed along his policy guide 374 00:18:19,330 --> 00:18:21,520 to the White House regarding the criteria 375 00:18:21,520 --> 00:18:23,810 that will be used in the future by service members 376 00:18:23,810 --> 00:18:26,800 to determine whether or not detainees will be moved 377 00:18:26,800 --> 00:18:27,633 to the facility. 378 00:18:28,390 --> 00:18:29,580 I guess my first question is, like, 379 00:18:29,580 --> 00:18:30,860 can you give this, sort of, an idea 380 00:18:30,860 --> 00:18:32,960 of what those criteria are and two, 381 00:18:32,960 --> 00:18:34,550 does this open the door 382 00:18:34,550 --> 00:18:39,550 to Guantanamo accepting new detainees 383 00:18:40,000 --> 00:18:41,500 from other parts of the world? 384 00:18:42,990 --> 00:18:44,310 - With respect to his policy, 385 00:18:44,310 --> 00:18:45,593 he did submit it. 386 00:18:47,560 --> 00:18:50,340 Right now, and, ultimately, the White House will decide 387 00:18:50,340 --> 00:18:52,460 how we move forward with the policy 388 00:18:52,460 --> 00:18:55,453 and will make those announcements, but as it is, 389 00:18:55,950 --> 00:18:58,340 our policy is that we are trying 390 00:18:58,450 --> 00:19:01,290 and we are trying to encourage countries 391 00:19:01,390 --> 00:19:03,883 to take back their citizens. 392 00:19:05,170 --> 00:19:08,413 We will continue to push that because it's important, 393 00:19:08,670 --> 00:19:10,363 we have a coalition. 394 00:19:11,590 --> 00:19:14,030 Violent extremism is a global problem 395 00:19:14,030 --> 00:19:15,970 and we need global action 396 00:19:15,970 --> 00:19:17,610 and therefore, we need nations 397 00:19:17,800 --> 00:19:19,643 to accept their citizens back. 398 00:19:20,700 --> 00:19:21,533 Janey. 399 00:19:21,740 --> 00:19:24,470 - Thank you I came a little late but uh, 400 00:19:24,470 --> 00:19:26,770 regarding the withdrawal of U.S. troops 401 00:19:27,120 --> 00:19:30,930 from South Korea, recently Secretary Mattis 402 00:19:31,416 --> 00:19:34,760 mentioned that there's a possibility of discussing 403 00:19:34,930 --> 00:19:38,763 about withdrawal U.S. troops from South Korea, 404 00:19:39,520 --> 00:19:44,520 is that true, if, after peace treaty talk 405 00:19:44,810 --> 00:19:47,273 between North and South Korea, 406 00:19:47,670 --> 00:19:52,670 what is the U.S. position on these issues? 407 00:19:53,508 --> 00:19:56,883 - Well, the secretary has said he's cautiously optimistic 408 00:19:56,883 --> 00:19:59,723 by what we've seen in the last week or so. 409 00:20:00,530 --> 00:20:02,390 But our mission remains the same, 410 00:20:02,390 --> 00:20:04,143 our posture hasn't changed. 411 00:20:04,860 --> 00:20:07,960 We are in a position to ensure that our diplomat 412 00:20:08,380 --> 00:20:13,380 can achieve the president's goal which is the irreversible, 413 00:20:13,500 --> 00:20:16,163 verifiable denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. 414 00:20:16,370 --> 00:20:19,160 But, believe the president said stay tuned, 415 00:20:19,160 --> 00:20:21,113 so, I will also stay tuned. 416 00:20:21,260 --> 00:20:22,320 (laughing) 417 00:20:22,320 --> 00:20:23,153 Elizabeth. 418 00:20:23,291 --> 00:20:24,990 - Hi Dana, I'm just curious, 419 00:20:24,990 --> 00:20:28,340 will DoD have a role to play if those American hostages 420 00:20:28,340 --> 00:20:29,993 are released from North Korea? 421 00:20:30,450 --> 00:20:34,083 - Again, I think we have to let our diplomats lead. 422 00:20:34,610 --> 00:20:36,990 We will support the state department in any capacity 423 00:20:36,990 --> 00:20:39,100 that they ask but, again, 424 00:20:39,100 --> 00:20:42,153 I think we have to wait and see. Jeff. 425 00:20:42,524 --> 00:20:44,603 - [Jeff] Thank you, the secretary said earlier this week 426 00:20:44,603 --> 00:20:46,953 that the Taliban is on it's back foot. 427 00:20:47,250 --> 00:20:50,750 Can the defense department provide any data, any metrics 428 00:20:50,940 --> 00:20:53,660 to show that the Taliban have lost ground 429 00:20:53,660 --> 00:20:54,743 in the past year? 430 00:20:55,840 --> 00:20:56,960 - The Taliban has lost ground 431 00:20:56,960 --> 00:21:00,080 and I believe General Nicholson has talked about that, 432 00:21:00,237 --> 00:21:05,237 and about the losing ground as well as all of the sites 433 00:21:06,810 --> 00:21:11,103 as far as resources, financial targeting that they've done. 434 00:21:12,346 --> 00:21:15,240 They have lost ground and I think you can see 435 00:21:15,240 --> 00:21:20,240 by the fact that their attacks have been more spectacular 436 00:21:20,620 --> 00:21:24,293 and they've killed more innocent lives, 437 00:21:24,390 --> 00:21:25,840 shows that they're desperate. 438 00:21:26,350 --> 00:21:28,830 So, I think there's plenty of evidence 439 00:21:28,830 --> 00:21:31,040 and there's been plenty of evidence in the last year 440 00:21:31,040 --> 00:21:34,373 that things are moving in the right direction. 441 00:21:34,572 --> 00:21:36,970 - If I could follow up, the Defense Department 442 00:21:37,080 --> 00:21:40,653 has characterized these attacks as acts of desperation, 443 00:21:40,820 --> 00:21:43,870 what made you conclude that as opposed to the Taliban 444 00:21:43,870 --> 00:21:46,593 and ISIS adopting a more effective tactic. 445 00:21:48,010 --> 00:21:51,163 - I say that because they're losing ground. 446 00:21:52,960 --> 00:21:57,483 The number of provinces that have governance is increasing. 447 00:21:59,960 --> 00:22:02,100 If you are, we say that they're desperate 448 00:22:02,100 --> 00:22:04,940 because people take drastic measures, 449 00:22:04,940 --> 00:22:07,053 in which, you're killing innocents, 450 00:22:08,170 --> 00:22:11,243 you're targeting people who are simply trying to vote, 451 00:22:12,150 --> 00:22:14,603 because you don't have another method. 452 00:22:15,370 --> 00:22:18,023 So, as the secretary said earlier, 453 00:22:18,110 --> 00:22:23,110 they need something spectacular so that media shows it, 454 00:22:23,460 --> 00:22:24,740 so that they can get attention 455 00:22:24,740 --> 00:22:29,100 because they're not capable of convincing the people 456 00:22:29,320 --> 00:22:30,820 that they are a viable option. 457 00:22:32,599 --> 00:22:33,432 - Aaron. 458 00:22:34,450 --> 00:22:36,610 - [Aaron] Just to go back to Djibouti for a second, 459 00:22:36,610 --> 00:22:38,417 I know you said you didn't have the exact number 460 00:22:38,417 --> 00:22:41,960 of incidents on hand but is it safe to say this is more 461 00:22:41,960 --> 00:22:43,110 than a one or two incident thing? 462 00:22:43,110 --> 00:22:45,053 - It is, I'd say a small number, 463 00:22:45,340 --> 00:22:46,990 there've been separate incidents, 464 00:22:47,090 --> 00:22:49,260 we can get you more fidelity 465 00:22:49,530 --> 00:22:52,703 but I would say probably more than two, 466 00:22:52,730 --> 00:22:55,123 less than ten but we can get you more fidelity. 467 00:22:55,160 --> 00:22:57,523 - [Aaron] And how long has this been going on for? 468 00:22:58,810 --> 00:22:59,940 - I don't have the exact number 469 00:22:59,940 --> 00:23:03,023 but these recent incidents have been in the last few weeks. 470 00:23:03,341 --> 00:23:04,174 - But, as you said, the recent incident 471 00:23:04,174 --> 00:23:05,440 is the last few weeks, 472 00:23:05,440 --> 00:23:08,290 have there been cases where this has happened previously? 473 00:23:08,530 --> 00:23:09,800 - I believe there have been cases 474 00:23:09,800 --> 00:23:11,110 where this has happened previously 475 00:23:11,110 --> 00:23:16,103 but what this started was, these last few weeks had us, 476 00:23:16,600 --> 00:23:19,620 we decided to become very serious about it 477 00:23:19,620 --> 00:23:21,290 and we have démarched the Chinese 478 00:23:21,300 --> 00:23:23,200 and we've asked for the investigation. 479 00:23:23,280 --> 00:23:24,600 - Because of the injuries or because the rate 480 00:23:24,600 --> 00:23:26,612 has increased in these incidents? 481 00:23:26,612 --> 00:23:27,445 - Both. 482 00:23:30,290 --> 00:23:31,123 Right here. 483 00:23:31,230 --> 00:23:32,410 - [Reporter] Hi, thank you. 484 00:23:32,410 --> 00:23:35,230 Is the Pentagon concerned about an escalating conflict 485 00:23:35,490 --> 00:23:38,460 between Israel and Iran in Syria and if so, 486 00:23:38,460 --> 00:23:40,023 what would the U.S.' role be? 487 00:23:42,570 --> 00:23:45,840 - We are concerned about the fact that Iran continues 488 00:23:46,370 --> 00:23:48,673 to be a malign influence in the region, 489 00:23:48,950 --> 00:23:51,780 that Iran continues to destabilize the region, 490 00:23:51,780 --> 00:23:56,004 that it uses it's proxies' forces to undermine stability 491 00:23:56,004 --> 00:23:58,810 in the region, and that's whether you're talking 492 00:23:58,810 --> 00:24:02,203 about Hezbollah or whether you're talking about the Houthis. 493 00:24:03,040 --> 00:24:04,723 That is our concern. 494 00:24:05,920 --> 00:24:08,830 Wherever Iran is, chaos follows 495 00:24:09,040 --> 00:24:13,320 and so, therefore, in Syria, it's a complex battle space 496 00:24:13,490 --> 00:24:15,970 and what Iran continues to do 497 00:24:16,917 --> 00:24:18,913 will continue to be of concern. 498 00:24:20,190 --> 00:24:23,363 - What would the U.S.' Role 499 00:24:23,363 --> 00:24:25,490 be in that if the conflict escalates 500 00:24:25,490 --> 00:24:26,410 there between those two-- 501 00:24:26,410 --> 00:24:27,540 - I'm not gonna... 502 00:24:28,040 --> 00:24:31,410 One, the United States and it's coalition partners 503 00:24:31,410 --> 00:24:33,480 always reserve the right of self-defense 504 00:24:33,730 --> 00:24:36,840 but in Syria, our mission continues to be to, 505 00:24:36,840 --> 00:24:39,110 the lasting defeat of ISIS. - Thank you. 506 00:24:39,110 --> 00:24:40,779 - [Man] Dana, we got time for one or two more. 507 00:24:40,779 --> 00:24:42,029 - Okay. Travis. 508 00:24:42,680 --> 00:24:46,130 - Do you have any idea of what China's motivation 509 00:24:46,130 --> 00:24:49,800 is for directing these lasers on U.S. aircraft, 510 00:24:49,800 --> 00:24:51,920 is it just to disrupt operations 511 00:24:51,920 --> 00:24:53,660 or is there something else going... 512 00:24:53,660 --> 00:24:55,100 - I'll have to have you ask the Chinese 513 00:24:55,100 --> 00:24:57,610 about their motivations but it's serious 514 00:24:57,990 --> 00:25:00,790 and we take it seriously and it's why we démarched them. 515 00:25:01,960 --> 00:25:04,420 Have one more? Way in the back! 516 00:25:04,420 --> 00:25:06,620 - Thank you, going back to the crash 517 00:25:06,620 --> 00:25:07,480 that happened yesterday, 518 00:25:07,480 --> 00:25:10,700 can you talk with me about what the Pentagon's doing 519 00:25:10,710 --> 00:25:12,087 in terms of investigating things like this 520 00:25:12,087 --> 00:25:14,773 'cause we've seen, is it a maintenance issue, 521 00:25:15,020 --> 00:25:16,500 is it a training issue or is it something 522 00:25:16,500 --> 00:25:19,653 that you guys are looking at from different aspects? 523 00:25:20,630 --> 00:25:22,943 - With this particular incident, 524 00:25:24,000 --> 00:25:25,260 we're looking at all aspects 525 00:25:25,260 --> 00:25:27,690 and that's what we do for any of these incidents, 526 00:25:27,690 --> 00:25:29,763 whether it's training or mechanical, 527 00:25:30,040 --> 00:25:31,653 that's our responsibility. 528 00:25:31,660 --> 00:25:33,460 So, this is still under investigation 529 00:25:33,460 --> 00:25:37,420 and so once we know more, we can provide more details. 530 00:25:37,420 --> 00:25:39,456 - Just a follow up, Dana, please? 531 00:25:39,456 --> 00:25:41,680 There have been seven crashes over the past month, 532 00:25:41,680 --> 00:25:44,233 killing 16 American service members, 533 00:25:44,430 --> 00:25:46,193 how concerned is Secretary Mattis, 534 00:25:46,350 --> 00:25:48,620 doesn't there need to be some kind of blue-ribbon panel 535 00:25:48,620 --> 00:25:50,793 to investigate all these crashes? 536 00:25:52,210 --> 00:25:54,220 - Secretary's concerned about any incident 537 00:25:54,220 --> 00:25:56,270 in which a service member's life is lost. 538 00:25:57,970 --> 00:26:01,210 Each service and each of these incidents are unique, 539 00:26:01,210 --> 00:26:04,420 you missed this earlier, but each incident is unique 540 00:26:04,560 --> 00:26:08,080 and unique to the service and the platform 541 00:26:08,170 --> 00:26:11,100 and so it's very important that we think about it 542 00:26:11,100 --> 00:26:12,223 in that regard. 543 00:26:13,190 --> 00:26:14,270 Does it concern us? 544 00:26:14,270 --> 00:26:16,860 Listen, we lost a lot of time being 545 00:26:16,860 --> 00:26:18,593 on C.Rs for several years. 546 00:26:18,940 --> 00:26:20,723 And you can buy the time back, 547 00:26:21,310 --> 00:26:23,313 you can't buy the training hours back, 548 00:26:23,720 --> 00:26:25,783 you can't buy the maintenance time back, 549 00:26:25,797 --> 00:26:27,080 you can't do that 550 00:26:27,320 --> 00:26:29,780 and so, that's why it's all the more important 551 00:26:30,060 --> 00:26:31,980 that we ensure and we're appreciative 552 00:26:31,980 --> 00:26:33,840 of the fact that Congress gave us a two-year deal 553 00:26:33,840 --> 00:26:36,440 for the 700 billion and the 716 554 00:26:36,810 --> 00:26:40,165 but stable budgeting is key for us 555 00:26:40,165 --> 00:26:40,998 and you wanna follow up, yeah. 556 00:26:40,998 --> 00:26:42,410 - You say they're all unique 557 00:26:42,410 --> 00:26:44,960 but over the past month there've been seven crashes, 558 00:26:44,960 --> 00:26:47,510 doesn't this point to something more like a crisis? 559 00:26:48,710 --> 00:26:49,860 - This is not a crisis 560 00:26:50,170 --> 00:26:52,200 but it is a crisis for each of these families 561 00:26:52,200 --> 00:26:55,060 and we owe them a full investigation 562 00:26:55,510 --> 00:26:57,227 and to understand what's going on 563 00:26:57,227 --> 00:26:58,760 but these are across services 564 00:26:58,760 --> 00:27:00,060 and these are different individuals 565 00:27:00,060 --> 00:27:01,410 and different circumstances 566 00:27:01,460 --> 00:27:04,580 and I can guarantee you, each service and the Secretary 567 00:27:05,550 --> 00:27:07,340 will do a thorough investigation 568 00:27:07,340 --> 00:27:09,450 and ensure that we're doing everything we can 569 00:27:09,450 --> 00:27:12,107 to ensure this doesn't happen, thank you. 570 00:27:12,225 --> 00:27:13,920 (reporters all talking) - One last follow on that... 571 00:27:13,920 --> 00:27:16,503 - Do you mind if I have another 572 00:27:16,575 --> 00:27:18,651 - Yeah, no, okay. One, yeah. 573 00:27:18,651 --> 00:27:19,551 (laughing) 574 00:27:19,551 --> 00:27:20,592 You know they're going to like, 575 00:27:20,592 --> 00:27:21,655 - Thank you so much. - What in the heck 576 00:27:21,655 --> 00:27:22,905 were you doing? 577 00:27:23,242 --> 00:27:24,480 - Do you know what's the number 578 00:27:24,480 --> 00:27:27,463 of U.S special forces inside the Yemen? 579 00:27:28,000 --> 00:27:30,910 And if you have any comment on the New York Times story 580 00:27:30,910 --> 00:27:35,910 that U.S. commandos, Green Berets are helping the Saudis 581 00:27:37,380 --> 00:27:39,423 to counter rebels inside Yemen? 582 00:27:41,310 --> 00:27:43,990 - One, we won't talk about whether the composition 583 00:27:43,990 --> 00:27:48,200 of our forces but as I said, the mil-to-mil relationship 584 00:27:48,200 --> 00:27:52,770 between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia is robust and we are there 585 00:27:52,950 --> 00:27:55,763 and we are helping them with securing their border, 586 00:27:56,970 --> 00:28:00,050 that is our mission and that's what we'll continue 587 00:28:00,050 --> 00:28:01,046 to do, thank you. 588 00:28:01,046 --> 00:28:04,463 - [Woman] One last follow on the crashes?