Story perspectives

Military Faces Legal Dilemmas Over Compliance with Orders

12/20/2025

Center

Military Guidance Reform

Brig. Gen. Eric Widmar tells Gen. Dan Caine that military orders are complex and often hinge on legality.
Frank Rosenblatt notes service members face challenges in deciding whether to comply with potentially unlawful orders.
The Orders Project seeks clear legal guidance amid tensions, including recent strikes against drug boats.
Rosenblatt calls for better training to empower military personnel to make informed decisions, noting bipartisan support.

Right

Kelly Faces Investigation

Department of Defense (DoD) opened an investigation into Senator Mark Kelly for allegedly advising troops to refuse illegal orders, linked to a video with Kelly and five other Democratic lawmakers.
Trump administration labeled the advice illegal.
President Donald Trump has suggested consequences for the lawmakers.
Kelly, a former Navy captain, says the investigation threatens his service legacy.
The DoD reminds service members to obey lawful orders and presumption of legality.

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Military Guidance Reform

Brig. Gen. Eric Widmar tells Gen. Dan Caine that military orders are complex and often hinge on legality.
Frank Rosenblatt notes service members face challenges in deciding whether to comply with potentially unlawful orders.
The Orders Project seeks clear legal guidance amid tensions, including recent strikes against drug boats.
Rosenblatt calls for better training to empower military personnel to make informed decisions, noting bipartisan support.

1 / 2