General Christopher Donahue, a highly respected figure leading U.S. Army forces in Europe and Africa, is stepping down on July 2. His departure comes amid speculation of disagreements with U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. Donahue's extensive special operations experience and command of NATO's land forces have made him a key military and political liaison in Europe.

C. D. Donahue, the last American soldier to leave Afghanistan, is the latest in a long line of military departures.

The Army’s commander of its forces in Europe and Africa is unexpectedly stepping down after just 18 months in the job. The Army confirmed late Tuesday that Gen.