President Donald Trump said on Monday that his administration intends to revert the Pentagon’s title from the Department of Defense to its pre-1947 designation, the Department of War, and indicated the change could be announced "within the next week or so." Speaking at two White House events—including a bilateral meeting with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung—Trump argued that the current name sounds "too defensive" and that the older title better reflects the military’s need for both defensive and offensive capabilities. The United States used the Department of War name from 1789 until 1947, when Congress reorganized the military under the National Security Act and adopted the present label. Trump cited the country’s victories in both World Wars under the former moniker as evidence the change would restore a sense of resolve, saying "we won everything" when it was called the Department of War. Asked by reporters whether congressional approval is required, Trump replied, "We’re just going to do it; I’m sure Congress will go along if we need that," suggesting he may attempt to proceed by executive action. The comment sets up a potential legal clash because the 1947 statute that created the Department of Defense specifies the department’s name and would ordinarily require legislation to amend. Several Republican lawmakers signaled support. Senator Mike Lee said he is drafting a bill to restore the historical name, while Representative Greg Steube pledged similar legislation in the House. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who has publicly floated the idea since March, called the rebranding "coming soon," but neither the White House nor the Pentagon has released details on how the transition would be implemented or funded.