Trump to rebrand Pentagon as Department of War
President Donald Trump has directed the Department of Defense to adopt “Department of War” as a secondary title, with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to be called Secretary of War. The executive order aims to emphasize US military readiness and refocus the department on “warfighting” rather than diversity programs, BBC reported.
The Pentagon, successor to the original War Department established in 1789, cannot be permanently renamed without Congress. Hegseth is tasked with proposing measures for a permanent change. Trump cited America’s military legacy and expects congressional support if needed.
The move follows China’s display of new military hardware and marks Trump’s 200th executive order since taking office. Permanent rebranding could cost billions, affecting uniforms, emblems, and agency materials, according to BBC.
Third quake strikes Afghanistan as deaths rise
A magnitude 5.6 earthquake hit southeastern Afghanistan Thursday night, the third quake in a week, adding to a mounting humanitarian crisis, BBC reported.
Seventeen people were reported injured in Kunar province, while Sunday’s stronger quake has already killed 1,368 and wounded over 2,100. Rescue efforts are slowed by landslides and rugged terrain, with helicopters conducting most operations amid continuing aftershocks.
The Taliban government said emergency tents and aid are being distributed and appealed for international help. The UN has released relief funds, and the UK pledged £1m in aid.
Afghanistan’s location on major fault lines makes it prone to deadly quakes; previous disasters killed thousands in 2022 and 2023, according to BBC.
Rubio says US will 'blow up' foreign crime groups if needed
Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned the US is ready to “blow up” foreign crime groups, saying Washington will act with or without allied support. Speaking in Ecuador, he confirmed plans to designate the country’s largest gangs, Los Lobos and Los Choneros, as terrorist organisations, BBC reported.
The move follows a US strike in the Caribbean that killed 11 suspected traffickers linked to Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua. Rubio also announced $19.5m in aid and drones to help Ecuador fight soaring cartel violence.
He said friendly governments would assist in targeting smugglers, while stressing President Trump’s commitment to waging war on cartels that “have been waging war on us for 30 years.”
Kim tells Xi that North Korea will support China's interests
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un told Chinese President Xi Jinping that Pyongyang will firmly support China’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national development, according to Reuters.
Kim said the friendship between the two countries would remain unchanged despite global shifts. Xi echoed this, calling China and North Korea “good neighbours, good friends and good comrades” with a shared future.
Both leaders agreed to deepen strategic cooperation, step up high-level exchanges, and strengthen coordination on regional and international issues. KCNA, the state media described the visit as a historic boost to political trust and bilateral ties.
Kim concluded his Beijing trip on Thursday, escorted to the border by senior Chinese officials. Separately, Russian President Vladimir Putin sent Kim a message marking North Korea’s foundation day, praising its military support for Russia and vowing stronger ties, Reuters reported.
