President Donald Trump signaled a possible plan to rename the U.S. Department of Defense as the “Department of War,” arguing that the old name evokes a stronger legacy of victory and American strength as in World War I and World War II. In a broad-ranging dialogue with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Trump cited record military recruitment, a shift to merit-based admissions, and a series of successful military operations. He claimed his administration achieved historic peace deals, stopped wars in Africa and Asia, and led U.S. advances in space, while stating “defense” sounds weak and that the nation should not only defend but also use “offense” when required.