According to a CBS News report citing four sources familiar with the incident, former President Donald Trump accidentally called retired U.S. Army Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster—his former national security advisor—last month from the White House.
The call, which came through on McMaster’s cellphone, began with a message telling him to stand by for the president. McMaster, who was abruptly removed from his post just 13 months into the Trump administration, was reportedly stunned to receive the call, especially considering recent events.
The call took place on May 2—just one day after Trump publicly attacked McMaster on Truth Social, calling him a “weak and ineffective loser.”
McMaster had also appeared on CBS News’ 60 Minutes, where he expressed skepticism over Trump’s relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin and the prospects for ending the war in Ukraine.
Two sources told CBS News that Trump began the call by saying, “Henry…” before launching into a conversation. The mix-up appeared to stem from confusion over McMaster’s name—he goes by H.R., short for Herbert Raymond, not Henry.
Realizing the error, McMaster reportedly clarified, “Mr. President, this is H.R. McMaster.”
Trump responded harshly, reportedly saying, “Why the f*** would I talk to H.R. McMaster?” before launching into a critical rant about his former advisor, the sources said.
The call was brief. According to CBS News, Trump had meant to call South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster, not his former national security aide.
It remains unclear who was responsible for the error, but sources said the call was placed by an aide working with Trump.
The White House declined to comment on the report or confirm whether the call occurred. However, White House Communications Director Steven Cheung issued a sharp statement to CBS News, attacking H.R. McMaster’s credibility and his book.
“H.R. McMaster has completely beclowned himself,” Cheung said. “His third-rate book—now in the bargain bin of the fiction section of a discount bookstore—is full of lies in a desperate attempt to salvage his damaged reputation.”
McMaster, now a CBS News contributor, declined to comment on the incident.
Disclaimer- Our team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and maintain its credibility. We are committed to providing honest and reliable content for our readers.