Pentagon says it will start firing 5,400 probationary civilian employees next week

WASHINGTON, Feb 21 (Reuters) - The Pentagon said on Friday it would start firing about 5,400 civilian employees who were on probation, the first moves by President Donald Trump's administration at the department to make good on its promise to reduce the federal workforce.

"We expect approximately 5,400 probationary workers will be released beginning next week as part of this initial effort, after which we will implement a hiring freeze while we conduct a further analysis of our personnel needs, complying as always with all applicable laws," said Darin Selnick, who is performing the duties of under Secretary of Defense for personnel and readiness.