Prior to Tillerson's ouster, he, Mattis and Pompeo would typically meet for breakfast or lunch once a week to informally discuss major national security issues facing the administration. And he can work with him," White said this week when asked about Mattis' relationship with the new national security adviser. A source close to the White House told CNN that tensions were high between Mattis and Bolton during the weeklong discussions over the best course of action. Like Trump, Bolton advocated for stronger military response while Mattis pushed back and ultimately won the argument with the approach that was agreed upon. The President brings together people from different perspectives, and he challenges them," White told reporters at the Pentagon this week.

Source: CNN April 28, 2018 14:15 UTC