Senator Blocks General Christopher Donahue’s Promotion Over Role in Afghanistan Withdrawal
Oklahoma Republican Senator Markwayne Mullin has blocked the promotion of Lieutenant General Christopher Donahue, a key figure in the 2021 U.S. troop withdrawal from Afghanistan. Donahue, who was recommended by the Pentagon for promotion to a four-star general and assignment as the commander of U.S. Army Europe, was notably absent from a recent list of nearly 1,000 promotions reviewed by the Senate Armed Services Committee, sources told CBS News.
Senator Blocks General Christopher Donahue’s Promotion Over Role in Afghanistan Withdrawal
The Controversy
Mullin’s decision to block Donahue’s promotion is reportedly tied to the general’s involvement in the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan. Mullin is seeking to leverage the issue for discussions with the newly Republican-controlled Congress and President-elect Donald Trump.
Sources indicate that military officials are lobbying to ensure Donahue’s promotion proceeds, arguing that withholding it appears politically motivated.
Donahue's Role in the Withdrawal
Lieutenant General Donahue was the last U.S. soldier to leave Afghanistan in 2021, marking the conclusion of a massive evacuation effort that airlifted approximately 125,000 people, including 6,000 Americans. Despite the operation's scale, it was marred by logistical and planning issues, culminating in a deadly suicide bombing that killed 13 U.S. service members and numerous Afghans.
Criticism of the Withdrawal
The U.S. State Department, in a comprehensive report last year, highlighted significant shortcomings in the operation, stating, “The planning was inadequate,” and pointing to critical communication failures during the evacuation. These issues contributed to widespread disorder during the mission.
Implications of the Promotion Block
The decision to stall Donahue’s promotion underscores lingering political tensions surrounding the Afghanistan withdrawal. While the military views his promotion as a recognition of service, opponents argue it raises accountability questions about the operation's execution.
As the Senate Armed Services Committee weighs the promotion list, Donahue's case remains a contentious flashpoint in the broader debate over U.S. military strategy and leadership decisions.
