US Military Leadership Strongly Condemns Capitol Breach as Riot and Insurrection

Unprecedented Statement Released on the 12th... Commitment to Protect Legal Transfer of Power

Mark Milley, Chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff
Photo by Reuters Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] The U.S. military leadership issued an unprecedented statement condemning the Capitol riot as a "riot and rebellion." They emphasized the lawful transfer of power, clearly stating that President-elect Joe Biden will be inaugurated and will become the next military commander.

According to CNN and other outlets on the 12th (local time), eight members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, including Chairman Mark Milley, released a statement saying, "We witnessed unlawful actions at the Capitol building," and added, "Freedom of speech and assembly are not granted to those who rely on violence, riots, and rebellion." They defined the January 6th intrusion by supporters of then-President Donald Trump at the Washington D.C. Capitol as a riot and rebellion.

They stated, "As we have throughout history, the U.S. military will obey the lawful orders of civilian leaders, support civilian authorities to protect the lives and property of citizens, ensure public safety according to the law, and defend the U.S. Constitution against all domestic and foreign enemies." They continued, "As soldiers, we must embody the nation's values and ideals. We support and defend the Constitution," and pointed out, "Any act that undermines constitutional procedures not only contradicts our traditions, values, and beliefs but also violates the law."

Chairman Milley also emphasized support for the lawful transfer of power, stating, "On the 20th of this month, President-elect Biden will be inaugurated according to the Constitution and will become the 46th Commander-in-Chief of the United States." Although there was no direct mention of President Trump, the military made clear that it cannot tolerate violence and will support a peaceful transfer of power based on the election results.

In addition to Chairman Milley, the statement was signed by eight members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, including Vice Chairman John Hyten, Army Chief of Staff James McConville, Marine Corps Commandant David Berger, Navy Chief of Naval Operations Michael Gilday, Air Force Chief of Staff Charles Brown, National Guard Bureau Chief Daniel Hokanson, and Space Force Chief of Space Operations John Raymond.

Foreign media described the military leadership’s statement as unusual, noting that they had remained silent for a week to maintain distance from political matters. The Washington Post (WP) explained that the statement did not mention any possibility of direct military intervention.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.