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Admiral Mullen: Polarization Threatens Military’s Apolitical Stance

12/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Admiral Mike Mullen warned that ideological polarization threatens the military's apolitical stance, calling the environment 'the most dangerous time' in memory.
Speaking at a security forum, he blamed U.S. President Donald Trump for politicizing the military.
He condemned a video by six former military Democrats urging personnel to resist 'illegal orders' and stressed the military must stay apolitical.
He expressed concern that sudden leadership changes could affect junior ranks.

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Story summary

Admiral Mike Mullen warned that ideological polarization threatens the military's apolitical stance, calling the environment 'the most dangerous time' in memory.
Speaking at a security forum, he blamed U.S. President Donald Trump for politicizing the military.
He condemned a video by six former military Democrats urging personnel to resist 'illegal orders' and stressed the military must stay apolitical.
He expressed concern that sudden leadership changes could affect junior ranks.