US military newspaper publisher quits amid Pentagon row over editorial freedom

The longtime publisher of Stars and Stripes, the US military newspaper, has resigned amid growing disagreements with the Pentagon over the publication’s editorial independence and direction.According to Al Jazeera, Max D Lederer Jr announced his retirement in a memo to staff on Tuesday, saying his understanding of the newspaper’s mission differed fundamentally from the direction being pursued by the US department of defense.Lederer said his leadership philosophy and understanding of the value of Stars and Stripes were no longer aligned with the Pentagon’s vision for the organisation. His resignation comes as the administration of President Donald Trump seeks greater control over the newspaper’s editorial direction.Founded in 1861, Stars and Stripes has long served US military personnel and their families, including troops stationed overseas. Although it receives significant government funding, the publication has historically maintained editorial independence from the administrations in power.The Pentagon has increasingly criticised the newspaper’s coverage.