On July 2, General Christopher Donahue relinquished his command of United States Army Europe and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s (NATO) Allied Land Command.
The retirement was abrupt, and the Department of Defense (DOD) has not specifically elaborated about why it occurred. However, it is known that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth attempted to demote him. Hegseth refused to appoint him as vice chief or army chief of staff. The chaotic refusal to deploy troops to Poland, which was ultimately reversed, also played a role in General Donahue’s ouster. As General Donahue was heavily involved in Eastern Europe’s defense, his termination is likely an attempt to degrade NATO. Also, on a larger note, United States Army Europe and Africa may be relegated to a three-star command. It has been noted, specifically in regard to this forced resignation, that Hegseth goes on firing sprees when he believes that his own position has become vulnerable.
This resignation occurred despite being in his position for only eighteen months, whereas his predecessors were usually there for three years. It also occurred despite General Donahue’s qualifications, which include his service as commander of Delta Force Units and of the 82nd Airborne Division (these facts indicate that General Donahue is actually more qualified to be Defense Secretary than Hegseth himself). However, Hegseth announced his intentions to eschew a meritocratic military with his policy of “less generals, more GIs,” which is being carried out regardless of the loss in experience and knowledge.
On July 23, the Pentagon nominated Lieutenant General Kevin D. Admiral to replace General Donahue. Lieutenant General Admiral is a three star general, confirming fears that United States Army Europe would be demoted to a three-star command.
