(TheRedAlertNews.com) – In an unexpected development that could have far-reaching consequences, Republican Senator Markwayne Mullin has blocked Lt. Gen. Christopher Donahue’s promotion to a four-star general over the latter’s role in the disgraceful 2021 pullout from Afghanistan.
See photos of Senator Mullin and Lt. Gen. Donahue in the tweet below!
Amidst the understandable scrutiny following the controversial Afghanistan withdrawal, this hold stirs robust debate about accountability and collateral damage.
Lt. Gen. Christopher T. Donahue was the last American service member to depart Afghanistan on August 31, 2021, marking the end of the 20-year war.
As commander of the 82nd Airborne Division, his leadership during the chaotic withdrawal became a focal point for political critiques.
Now, his career progression to four-star general remains on hold, thanks to Senator Markwayne Mullin’s intervention.
Senator Mullin’s decision appears linked to dissatisfaction with the evacuation’s execution, criticized by many as a flawed strategy initiated under the Trump administration in February 2020.
Interestingly, General Donahue is not just criticized; he is also praised.
His extensive military career includes commendable stints as a former Delta Force commander, Army Ranger, and paratrooper with multiple tours in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Recently assigned to lead the U.S. Army’s Europe Command in a tense Ukraine and considered a potential future candidate for the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Donahue has fervent supporters advocating for his leadership.
Many see the block as perhaps the first sign of the Trump administration’s intent to hold senior officers accountable for past decisions.
Trump’s transition team is allegedly considering court-martial proceedings against those involved in the withdrawal, NBC News reports.
This step complicates the promotion process further, drawing lines in the political battleground between those perceiving this as a justified hold and those calling it retributive.
Reserved voices within the military caution against scapegoating officers like Donahue, who acted under political orders.
Retired Gen. Tony Thomas chastised the decision as a “disgrace,” treating Donahue as a “political pawn.”
Meanwhile, supporters like Doug Philippone testify to Donahue’s bravery and leadership, advocating against the injustice of his blocked promotion.
Military figures like Gen. Kenneth F. McKenzie Jr. have publicly endorsed Donahue’s capabilities and leadership.
The nomination’s suspension also poses risks due to the impending Senate recess and the incoming Congress in 2025.
Amid this uncertainty, the Pentagon remains aware of the hold, with military and political communities keenly observing how this saga unfolds.
Many argue withholding promotion due to inherently complex circumstances jeopardizes not only Donahue’s career but potentially sets concerning precedents for those faithfully serving under challenging directives.
Good- More should join -Lt. Gen. Christopher Donahue
who oversaw the 82nd Airborne Div during deadly 2021 US withdrawal from Afghanistan, should not be promoted to general.GOP senator blocks promotion of top general who oversaw Afghanistan withdrawal.https://t.co/fp2DvW9vi0 pic.twitter.com/MtG4VEtOmC
— Blanche Victoria (@tammytabby) November 22, 2024
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