US War Secretary Declares New Era of Great Power Confrontation

DID Press: US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced the world has entered a “new era of great power confrontation,” emphasizing the need for readiness for war — remarks that highlight Washington’s aggressive foreign policy amid rising geopolitical tensions and its recent unilateral operation in Caracas.

Speaking at a shipyard in Virginia, Hegseth claimed while the U.S. seeks constructive relations with China and other nations, it must simultaneously maintain deterrence and readiness for a “decisive victory in war.” Critics say this rhetoric reflects America’s longstanding reliance on military power over diplomacy and disregard for international law.

Hegseth also defended renaming the Pentagon from the “Department of Defense” to the “Department of War,” framing it as a tool to “preserve peace,” though opponents argue it underscores a militarized approach in U.S. foreign policy.

He revealed details of the recent operation in Caracas, stating that nearly 200 U.S. personnel arrested a figure “wanted by U.S. justice” with the support of over 150 military aircraft and assaults on Venezuelan defensive positions — an intervention carried out without international authorization.

Following Donald Trump’s announcement of Nicolás Maduro’s abduction and transfer to the U.S., widespread protests erupted across American cities. Numerous countries, including Iran, China, Russia, Colombia, Brazil, the UK, and the EU, condemned the action as a clear violation of international law.

Analysts warn that such actions not only further undermine U.S. legitimacy but also push the world toward increasingly dangerous rivalries and deeper instability.