A day after President Donald Trump accused the US military brass of wanting to fight wars to keep weapons makers happy, the Army’s top general said on Tuesday leaders of the armed forces would recommend sending troops into combat only when it is in American national security interests or as a last resort.

Asked about Trump’s Monday criticism of Pentagon leaders, US Army chief of staff General James McConville declined to comment directly on it, saying the military should remain out of politics, especially close to an election.