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By Idrees Ali and Phil Stewart

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s speeches at a rare gathering of U.S. military leaders on Tuesday were met with sharp criticism from Democrats, praise from Republicans but a muted response so far from military officials themselves.

Speaking with hundreds of U.S. generals and admirals in a packed auditorium in Quantico, Virginia, Hegseth told commanders they should resign if they do not support his agenda. He also denounced “fat generals,” saying the troops should be in better physical shape while slamming diversity initiatives.

Hegseth has moved with stunning speed to reshape the department, firing top generals and admirals as he seeks to implement Trump’s n

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