Hegseth Gives Anthropic Until Friday To Back Down on AI Safeguards

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by msmash

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has given Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei until Friday evening to comply with demands for unrestricted access to its AI model, Claude, or face severe consequences. During a tense meeting Tuesday, Hegseth warned that the Pentagon could either classify Anthropic as a "supply chain risk," severing ties, or invoke the Defense Production Act to force the company to adapt its model to military specifications. The move reflects escalating tensions over AI safeguards, with the Department of Defense seeking greater control while Anthropic resists compromising its ethical policies. The Pentagon's stance is driven by concerns over AI safety and potential misuse, such as mass surveillance or autonomous weapons. However, officials acknowledge their reliance on Claude, which is considered one of the most advanced models in the industry. A defense official emphasized, "We need them now," underscoring the critical role Anthropic plays in national security efforts. Despite this dependency, the military's demands have created a precarious situation, with Anthropic insisting it will not comply with policies that violate ethical guidelines. The feud highlights the growing conflict between government oversight and private sector innovation in AI. While the Pentagon seeks to ensure compliance with national security interests, Anthropic remains committed to preventing harmful applications of its technology. The outcome of this standoff could set a precedent for future interactions between the military and AI developers, influencing how ethical boundaries are navigated in an increasingly tech-dependent world. This situation matters because it addresses critical questions about AI governance, accountability, and the balance between innovation and regulation. As AI becomes more integral to national security, decisions like these will shape the future of technology development and deployment. The outcome could either strengthen safeguards or risk stifling innovation by overreaching military control. For tech enthusiasts and policymakers alike, this is a pivotal moment in understanding how AI intersects with national security and ethical considerations.

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Originally published on Slashdot on 2/25/2026