General Christopher Donahue, who commanded US Army Europe and Africa as well as NATO's Allied Land Command, is stepping down on July 2, 2026, after serving 18 months in the role [1, 2, 3]. Donahue, known for being the last US soldier to leave Afghanistan during the chaotic August 30, 2021 withdrawal, has led multiple key military operations over his career [1, 3].
He commanded the 82nd Airborne Division from July 2020 to March 2022 and led Delta Force units in both Iraq and Afghanistan before his current posting [1, 2, 3]. Donahue was brought in during the 2021 Kabul evacuation to help restore security at Hamid Karzai International Airport amid intense disorder as approximately 124,000 Afghan evacuees were airlifted out of the country [1, 2, 3]. Although Donahue coordinated airport security, the Marines were responsible for guarding Abbey Gate, where a suicide bombing killed 13 US service members and around 170 Afghan civilians [3].
Since December 2024, Donahue has also played a key role managing military aid efforts to Ukraine following the Russian invasion in February 2022, reflecting his focus on European security challenges [3]. Donahue will be succeeded by his deputy, Major General Christopher Norrie, who will perform his duties once he steps down [1, 2, 3].
Donahue submitted retirement papers at the request of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who has recently moved to reduce the number of generals in the military leadership structure [1, 3]. His departure marks the end of a notable military tenure that spanned frontline combat leadership and strategic command roles.
General Donahue is scheduled to hand over command on July 2, 2026, closing a significant chapter in US military operations in Europe and Africa [1, 2, 3].
