US president Donald Trump’s renaming of the Department of Defense to “Department of War” and his threats of apocalyptic warfare have raised international concerns about potential global conflicts.
Department of War Restart
On September 5, Trump signed an executive order to formally transform the Department of Defense into the Department of War. While the change is not yet law, concerns have been raised about the influence it may have in the United States’ global military role.
Vice President’s War Rhetoric
On the same day, vice president JD Vance tweeted about the need to eliminate cartel members responsible for the trafficking of drugs into the United States, stating, “Killing cartel members who poison our fellow citizens is the best use we can make of our military.” When asked about the potential for committing war crimes against civilians, Vance replied, “F*ck you if you know.”
Shift in US Military Strategy
As part of this newly aggressive stance, the US Department of Homeland Security has requested increased military support for deportation operations near Chicago, with nearly 4,000 marines and navy personnel now stationed in the area. Additionally, the US has increased its naval presence near Venezuelan waters, dispatching more warships with missiles and a submarine.
