WASHINGTON, November 24 (Sputnik) – The US Senior Administration official confirmed to Sputnik on Monday the resignation of Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel.
"This morning at 11:10 am [16:10 GMT] at the White House joined by the President, Secretary Hagel will announce his resignation," the official said.
According to the official, a successor will be named in short order.
Chuck Hagel will remain as defense secretary until the Senate confirms his replacement, he said.
"Over nearly two years, Secretary Hagel has been a steady hand, guiding our military through this transition, and helping us respond to challenges from ISIL to Ebola," the US Senior Administration official added.
The official also noted that the talks regarding Hagel's resignation had been ongoing for several weeks.
"In October, Secretary Hagel began speaking with the President about departing the Administration given the natural post-midterms transition time."
Chuck Hagel, a former senator, has served as defense secretary since February 2013.
