Story perspectives

Military Faces Tension Over Lawful vs. Unlawful Orders

11/27/2025

Center

Military Order Dispute

Members of the U.S. military may refuse orders they believe are unlawful, but they risk consequences if the orders are lawful.
Experts say service members should presume orders are lawful unless clearly illegal, following Nuremberg principles.
Democratic lawmakers, including Sen. Mark Kelly, released a video urging military personnel to reject illegal orders.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth labeled the video "seditious" in response.

Right

Smith Critiques Trump's Orders

Rep. Adam Smith (D-Wash.) says on CNN that he believes U.S. President Donald Trump issued illegal military orders, citing a video.
Smith criticized Department of War's review of Sen. Mark Kelly for participating and called it a threat to free speech.
He stated elected officials should express opinions without fear of legal repercussions.
Sen. Elissa Slotkin, also in the video, said she is unaware of any illegal orders, noting Caribbean action legalities.

1 of 2

Military Order Dispute

Members of the U.S. military may refuse orders they believe are unlawful, but they risk consequences if the orders are lawful.
Experts say service members should presume orders are lawful unless clearly illegal, following Nuremberg principles.
Democratic lawmakers, including Sen. Mark Kelly, released a video urging military personnel to reject illegal orders.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth labeled the video "seditious" in response.

1 / 2