The Brian Lehrer Show President Trump Rebrands the Pentagon the 'Department of War'
Sep 8, 2025
Fred Kaplan, Slate’s War Stories columnist and author of the upcoming novel A Capital Calamity, dives into President Trump's bold decision to rename the Department of Defense the 'Department of War.' He discusses the symbolic and real-world implications this change could have on U.S. military policy and global perception. Kaplan also tackles the legality of a recent U.S. military operation against a Venezuelan boat linked to drug trafficking, sparking debates on military engagement and the evolving terminology of war.
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Name Change Is More Than Theater
- Renaming Defense to War is both symbolic posturing and a signal of intent to emphasize offensive military identity.
- Fred Kaplan says the change is performative but carries real diplomatic and morale costs.
Global Shift From 'War' To 'Defense'
- After WWII most countries shifted from 'war' to 'defense' to signal restraint and integration of security with other national functions.
- Kaplan notes no country today officially uses 'war' for its defense ministry.
'Warrior Ethos' Risks Lawlessness
- The push to restore a 'warrior ethos' often rejects legal restraints and accountability in combat.
- Kaplan warns this ethos risks condoning unlawful conduct and demoralizing service members.
