The U.S. Army's commanding general of forces in Europe and Africa is stepping down after approximately 18 months at the coveted post. Gen. Christopher Donahue, who also leads NATO's Allied Land Command, will relinquish his command on July 2, according to a statement from the Army.
Donahue's deputy, Maj. Gen. Christopher Norrie, will take over his duties after July 2. Donahue submitted his retirement papers at the request of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who has sought to reduce the number of generals and prioritize adding new personnel.
The Army thanks Gen. Donahue for his leadership of U.S. Army Europe and Africa, citing his significant contributions to the organization. Donahue is best known as the last U.S. soldier to leave Afghanistan in August 2021, marking the end of America's nearly 20-year war launched after the Sept. 11 attacks.
Donahue's leadership of the evacuation, which saw approximately 124,000 Afghan citizens airlifted from the country, drew praise from both Democrats and Republicans, despite criticism of the broader withdrawal strategy as rushed and haphazard. He was also a key figure in coordinating military aid to Ukraine after the Russian invasion in February 2022.
Donahue's departure coincides with discussions inside the Army to downgrade U.S. Army Europe and Africa from a four-star to a three-star command. This decision comes as Defense Secretary Hegseth has announced a six-month review of American forces in Europe, which will assess the readiness and capabilities of NATO allies to take primary responsibility for the defense of Europe.
Donahue will need a presidential waiver to retain his four-star retirement benefits, since he hasn't had his fourth star for the requisite three years. Despite his departure, he remains a seasoned soldier with extensive combat experience, and his expertise in drone warfare has made him the US Army's preeminent expert on the subject.
