Senate confirms promotion of general who led Afghanistan withdrawal to U.S. Army Europe-Africa commander

The Senate has confirmed Lt. Gen. Christopher Donahue as the new commander of U.S. Army Europe-Africa. Donahue was the last American soldier to leave Afghanistan in August 2021 and previously led the 82nd Airborne Division during the withdrawal. His promotion faced a delay due to a procedural hold by Senator Markwayne Mullin, who criticized the Biden administration's handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal. The hold was lifted, allowing for unanimous consent on Donahue's confirmation. Donahue has been in command of the 18th Airborne Corps since 2022 and has held various leadership roles in special operations. His confirmation marks a significant step in his military career following the controversial withdrawal from Afghanistan.