Outrage has erupted across the political spectrum after former President Donald Trump accused Democratic lawmakers of engaging in what he described as "seditious behaviour" that should be "punishable by death."
Trump's Explosive Social Media Post
The controversy began when Trump responded to a video released by six Democratic lawmakers who had previously served in military or intelligence roles. The politicians, including senators Elissa Slotkin and Mark Kelly, along with representatives Maggie Goodlander, Chris Deluzio, Chrissy Houlahan and Jason Crow, appeared in a clip advising active service members that they should refuse illegal orders.
In their Tuesday video message, the lawmakers stated clearly: "Our laws are clear, you can refuse illegal orders, you must refuse illegal orders. No one has to carry out orders that violate the law or our constitution."
Trump's furious response came via his Truth Social platform, where he characterised their advice as treasonous behaviour deserving of the ultimate penalty.
Democratic Response and Fallout
The targeted Democrats quickly issued a joint statement condemning Trump's remarks, describing them as dangerous and inflammatory. The incident has further heightened political tensions in Washington as the nation approaches another election cycle.
Meanwhile, in separate developments, reports have emerged that the FBI monitored a private Signal group chat used by immigration activists organising "courtwatch" efforts in New York City. Documents indicate that federal law enforcement gained access to conversations in the encrypted messaging app and characterised the court watchers as "anarchist violent extremist actors."
International Diplomacy Developments
In foreign affairs, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has confirmed he will negotiate with Donald Trump regarding a US-backed peace plan that would require Ukraine to make significant concessions to end Russia's invasion. Zelenskyy's office confirmed he received the draft peace plan prepared by US and Russian officials and will speak with Trump in coming days about "existing diplomatic opportunities and the main points that are necessary for peace."
European leaders are reportedly scrambling to respond to the US-led proposal, with indications that the Trump administration wants to advance the deal on an "aggressive timeline."
Record-Breaking Comic Book Sale
In lighter news, a remarkable discovery in a California attic has resulted in comic book history being made. A copy of Superman No 1 from 1939 sold for an astonishing $9.12 million, setting a new world record for the most expensive comic book ever sold.
The prized comic was discovered last year by three unnamed brothers who found it under a stack of old newspapers in a cardboard box while clearing their late mother's attic in northern California.
Other significant stories include concerning reports about fundraising for Palestinian civilians in Gaza experiencing a "catastrophic" drop since October's ceasefire, and the controversial alteration of a CDC website to reflect Robert F Kennedy Jr's disputed views about vaccines and autism.
The art world also celebrated as a 1940 self-portrait by Mexican artist Frida Kahlo sold for $54.7 million at a New York auction, establishing a new record price for any work by a female artist.
