President Trump has ordered a complete halt to federal use of Anthropic AI technology, initiating a six-month transition period. The directive stems from escalating tensions over AI safeguards and defense applications.
Trump cited the AI developer's attempts to override military authority through internal usage restrictions. He asserted that private companies cannot dictate military operations, framing the move as a defense of executive power.
The decision follows stalled negotiations between Anthropic and the Pentagon regarding the military deployment of its Claude AI model. A deadline for revised contract terms, described as the final offer by defense officials, was missed.
Anthropic stated "virtually no progress" was made, expressing concerns that proposed language would not prevent the system's use for mass surveillance or fully autonomous weapons. Trump emphasized that decisions on military operations remain with the commander in chief, not private tech firms, and warned of potential consequences for non-cooperation during the phase-out.