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Veterans Slam Trump Over Military Politicization: Experts Respond

Source: ‘Horribly wrong’: US veterans condemn Trump’s politicization of military (2025-11-23)

In a recent surge of criticism, U.S. military veterans and defense experts have strongly condemned former President Donald Trump’s recent remarks, accusing him of dangerously politicizing the military. Trump’s comments, which included accusing Democrats of “sedition” and urging soldiers to refuse what he called “illegal orders,” have sparked widespread outrage among military professionals and veterans alike. These statements are viewed as a “horribly wrong” attempt to manipulate the armed forces for political gain, undermining the core principles of military neutrality and discipline. This controversy comes amid growing concerns about the erosion of civilian-military boundaries in U.S. politics, especially as political figures increasingly leverage military symbolism and rhetoric. Experts emphasize that such politicization risks damaging the integrity and trustworthiness of the U.S. military, which is constitutionally designed to remain apolitical. Historically, military leaders have maintained a strict separation from partisan politics to preserve their impartiality and effectiveness. Recent facts highlight the gravity of this issue: 1. The U.S. military has a long-standing tradition of political neutrality, with the Uniform Code of Military Justice explicitly prohibiting service members from engaging in partisan political activities. 2. The Department of Defense has issued statements reaffirming its commitment to remaining apolitical, especially during election periods. 3. Public opinion polls indicate that trust in the military’s neutrality has declined slightly amid increasing politicization of military figures and symbols. 4. Several retired generals and active-duty officers have publicly criticized Trump’s comments, warning of long-term damage to military morale and public trust. 5. The Pentagon has launched an internal review to assess the impact of political rhetoric on military discipline and cohesion. 6. Experts warn that such rhetoric could embolden extremist groups or undermine national security by politicizing military loyalty. 7. Historically, attempts to politicize the military have led to significant repercussions, including erosion of public confidence and internal divisions. 8. The U.S. military’s role as a defender of the Constitution, rather than a political tool, is fundamental to its identity and operational integrity. 9. International allies closely monitor U.S. military conduct, and politicization risks damaging global perceptions of American military professionalism. 10. Civil society organizations are calling for stronger safeguards to prevent future politicization and to uphold the military’s apolitical stance. As the nation grapples with these developments, experts stress the importance of reaffirming the military’s nonpartisan role to safeguard democratic stability. Upholding the principles of neutrality and discipline is essential not only for national security but also for maintaining the trust of the American people and allies worldwide. Moving forward, policymakers, military leaders, and civil society must work together to reinforce the boundaries that keep the military apolitical, ensuring that it remains a pillar of stability and democracy in the United States.

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