Pete Hegseth denies reports of plans to run for U.S. president in 2028

Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth has denied a report by NBC News that he intends to run for president of the United States in the 2028 election.

Characterizing the publications citing anonymous sources as unreliable, Hegseth said on the social network X that his only task is to lead the military department.

Earlier, NBC News reported that the head of the Pentagon had discussed potential participation in the presidential race with his inner circle. At the same time, according to the media outlet, Donald Trump, in private conversations with Republican Party donors, expressed a desire to see Vice President JD Vance as the party's candidate.