The publisher of Franklin the Turtle released a statement Monday condemning the “violent” use of the children’s book character after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth posted an image with the title “Franklin Targets Narco Terrorists.”

“Franklin the Turtle is a beloved Canadian icon who has inspired generations of children and stands for kindness, empathy, and inclusivity,” the publishing house Kids Can Press wrote in a statement posted to X.

“We strongly condemn any denigrating, violent, or unauthorized use of Franklin’s name or image, which directly contradicts these values,” the statement read.

Chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell responded to the publisher in a statement to NBC News, saying, “We doubt Franklin the Turtle wants to be inclusive of drug cartels… or laud the kindness an

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