Esper headed to NATO meeting in Shanahan's place

Army Secretary Mark Esper, who is slated to become acting defense secretary when Pat Shanahan resigns Sunday, will travel to a NATO defense meeting in Brussels next week, according to chief Pentagon spokesman Jonathan Hoffman.

"The focus of his meetings will be reinforcing the U.S. commitment to strengthening the NATO Alliance, ensuring more equitable burden sharing, bolstering NATO readiness and addressing regional security issues," Hoffman said.

Monday will be Esper’s first day as acting defense secretary.

President Trump has said he will "most likely" nominate Esper to become permanent defense secretary.

Shanahan, who was Trump's previous choice, withdrew from consideration earlier this week amid media reports detailing past violent incidents involving his ex-wife and son.