General who was last US soldier out of Afghanistan suddenly steps down

General Christopher Donahue, the commander of U.S. Army forces in Europe and Africa, is unexpectedly stepping down from his position. He will relinquish command on July 2nd after serving 18 months in the role. Donahue was notably the last American soldier to depart Afghanistan in 2021. His departure follows a trend of nearly two dozen top military leaders retiring or leaving their posts early. This is part of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's initiative to reduce the number of generals in the military.

General Christopher Donahue, the last American soldier to leave Afghanistan in 2021, is unexpectedly stepping down as commander of U.S. Army Europe and Africa after 18 months. He will relinquish command on July 2nd. Donahue's departure is part of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's initiative to reduce the number of top military leaders. His deputy, Major General Christopher Norrie, will temporarily assume his duties. This move occurs as the Army reportedly considers downgrading the Europe and Africa command and amid Hegseth's review of American forces in Europe, urging allies to take greater responsibility for regional defense.

U.S. Army General Christopher Donahue, the last American soldier to leave Afghanistan in 2021, is unexpectedly stepping down as commander of U.S. Army Europe and Africa after 18 months. His departure on July 2 is part of a broader trend of top military leaders leaving their posts early under Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's initiative to reduce the number of generals. Donahue, a decorated special operations commander, oversaw security during the chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal. His early departure coincides with discussions about downgrading the U.S. Army Europe and Africa command and amid Hegseth's review of American forces in Europe. The Army confirmed Donahue will relinquish command, with his deputy temporarily assuming his duties.