Gen. Chris Donahue, the commander of U.S. Army Europe and Africa, has submitted his retirement papers, marking the latest high-level departure under Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Donahue, who assumed command in December 2024, will step down on July 2, according to an Army statement. His departure follows a broader Pentagon overhaul that has seen multiple top military leaders retire or leave their posts early.
Donahue, a West Point graduate and former Delta Force commander, was the last U.S. soldier to leave Afghanistan in 2021. His resignation comes as Hegseth pushes to reduce the number of generals in the military, a policy critics have dubbed "less generals, more GIs." The command Donahue leads is also set to be downgraded from a four-star to a three-star post, limiting career options for high-ranking officers.
Background and Context
Donahue’s career includes leadership roles in Iraq and Afghanistan, where he commanded Delta Force units and the 82nd Airborne Division. His departure follows the removal of other top officers, including Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George. Hegseth’s restructuring has sparked debate over the impact on military readiness and leadership stability.
Next Steps and Implications
Maj. Gen. Christopher Norrie will temporarily take over Donahue’s duties. Lt. Gen. Kevin Admiral, currently commanding the Army’s III Armored Corps, is expected to be nominated as Donahue’s successor. The reduction in four-star commands raises questions about the Pentagon’s long-term strategy for military leadership.
Diverse Perspectives
Some sources report tensions between Donahue and Hegseth, while others emphasize the broader policy shift toward streamlining military leadership. The Atlantic first reported Donahue’s departure, and CBS News cited multiple sources familiar with the situation. The Army confirmed the retirement in a statement to the Associated Press.