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Lt. Gen. Christopher Donahue, a key figure in the U.S. Army, was recently promoted to the rank of general and appointed as the Commanding General of U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as the commander of NATO’s Allied Land Command. This elevation to a four-star general position follows his nomination by President Biden and subsequent confirmation by the Senate after an initial hold by Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), which was later lifted.
Lt. Gen. Donahue gained significant recognition as the last U.S. service member to leave Afghanistan during the 2021 withdrawal. He was photographed boarding the final C-17 cargo plane, symbolizing the end of America’s 20-year engagement in the country.
During that time, he commanded the 82nd Airborne Division, overseeing the evacuation efforts, which included the safe airlift of over 120,000 people amidst a chaotic and dangerous environment.
The U.S. evacuation of Afghanistan faced numerous flaws stemming from logistical, political, and intelligence challenges. Key issues included:
- Chaotic Planning: The sudden collapse of the Afghan government and the rapid Taliban takeover overwhelmed evacuation efforts. Preparations for civilian and allied evacuations were inadequate, leading to panic and overcrowding at Kabul’s airport.
- Intelligence Failures: U.S. agencies underestimated the speed of the Taliban’s advance, which left little time to organize a structured evacuation.
- Disrupted Processes: The U.S. struggled with a slow and bureaucratic visa system for Afghan allies, leaving thousands behind.
- Closure of Strategic Bases: The premature shutdown of Bagram Air Base limited operational flexibility, constraining evacuation logistics and security measures.
- Conflicting Signals: Efforts to maintain Afghan government stability delayed evacuation plans, contributing to the chaotic final weeks
During the evacuation of Afghanistan in August 2021, 13 U.S. service members were killed in a suicide bombing outside Kabul’s Hamid Karzai International Airport. The attack, claimed by ISIS-K, targeted the crowded Abbey Gate, where thousands of civilians were seeking evacuation. The fatalities included 11 Marines, one Navy corpsman, and one Army soldier. Additionally, over 170 Afghan civilians died, and many others were injured
Sen. Markwayne Mullin’s hold on Lt. Gen. Chris Donahue’s promotion was due to concerns over the withdrawal from Afghanistan. He sought accountability for decisions made during the withdrawal, arguing that promotions for leaders involved should be scrutinized to ensure they reflect responsibility for the mission’s shortcomings.
Several news outlets have reached out Mullin’s office for comment on why he lifted the hold but have yet to receive a statement.
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