The U.S. Senate confirmed Army Lieutenant General Christopher Donahue’s promotion on Monday, following a brief hold placed by Republican Senator Markwayne Mullin. Donahue, who commanded U.S. forces during the chaotic 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan, was confirmed as a four-star general and the next top commander of the U.S. Army in Europe. Mullin had temporarily blocked the nomination, but Donahue’s promotion was ultimately approved through unanimous consent as part of a batch of military promotions.
Donahue, who commanded the 82nd Airborne Division during the evacuation, was the last American soldier to leave Afghanistan, symbolized by a now-iconic photo of him boarding the final C-17 transport flight, rifle by his side. This image has become synonymous with the tumultuous withdrawal. Despite the criticism surrounding the Afghanistan withdrawal, Donahue is widely regarded within the military as one of its most skilled commanders.
The confirmation came amid ongoing criticism of the 2021 withdrawal, with President-elect Donald Trump and his supporters vowing to hold senior officials accountable for the operation. Trump had previously stated that he would demand the resignation of every official involved in the “calamity” of Afghanistan.
Under Senate procedures, one senator can place a hold on nominations, delaying their progress even if there is broad consensus to approve them. Donahue’s confirmation was part of a larger group of military promotions, and his office did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
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