Senate confirms promotion of general in Afghanistan withdrawal
Lt. Gen. Christopher Donahue, the last American soldier to depart Kabul, Afghanistan, in a viral night vision photo, has been quietly confirmed by the Senate to lead U.S. Army forces in Europe and Africa. Donahue, who led the 82nd Airborne Division during the 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan, was nominated by President Biden for a promotion to four-star general. However, his confirmation was delayed by one senator, reportedly Sen. Markwayne Mullin, a vocal critic of the Biden-Harris administration’s handling of the withdrawal.
Mullin has been critical of Donahue and other officials for their roles in the botched withdrawal, which was marred by the tragic killing of 13 U.S. service members and numerous Afghan civilians in a suicide bombing at Hamid Karzai International Airport. Donahue was responsible for securing the airfield during the evacuation efforts before the Taliban took control of the country.
In an August 2024 statement, Mullin called for accountability for the disaster, specifically naming Donahue among others. Despite the criticism, former Defense Secretary Mark Esper defended Donahue’s nomination and urged for the hold to be lifted. Trump had also promised to hold senior officers accountable for the withdrawal, though Donahue was not specifically targeted.
The Senate ultimately confirmed Donahue’s promotion to lead US Army Europe-Africa by unanimous consent on Monday after the hold was dropped. Donahue has a wealth of experience, having led the 18th Airborne Corps and served in various special operations and counterterrorism roles.
Donahue’s confirmation marks an important step in his military career, and he is poised to lead U.S. Army forces in Europe and Africa with distinction. The Senate’s decision to confirm him underscores his qualifications and leadership capabilities, despite the challenges faced during the Afghanistan withdrawal.
As Donahue takes on this new role, he will undoubtedly bring his expertise and experience to bear in ensuring the safety and security of American forces in Europe and Africa. His confirmation is a testament to his dedication and commitment to serving his country, and he will no doubt continue to excel in his new position.
