U.S. Senate has approved the promotion of the general involved in the Afghanistan withdrawal

The U.S. Senate confirmed the promotion of Army Lieutenant General Christopher Donahue on Monday, following a brief hold placed by a Republican senator. Donahue, who commanded forces in Afghanistan during the U.S. withdrawal, is set to become a four-star general and the top commander of the U.S. Army in Europe.

Senator Markwayne Mullin had initially blocked Donahue’s nomination. The 2021 military withdrawal from Afghanistan has been criticized by President-elect Donald Trump and his supporters, who have pledged to hold accountable those involved. During his re-election campaign, Trump stated in August that he would seek the resignations of all senior officials associated with the Afghanistan situation.

Donahue’s confirmation was achieved through unanimous consent, as part of a larger group of military promotions. His office has not yet provided a comment on the matter.

As the commander of the 82nd Airborne Division during the withdrawal, Donahue was the last American soldier to depart Afghanistan as U.S. forces completed their evacuation in August 2021. His image, captured as he boarded the final C-17 flight with his rifle at his side, has become emblematic of the tumultuous exit, yet he is regarded within military circles as one of the most capable commanders.

According to Senate regulations, a single senator can delay nominations, even if the remaining 99 are in favor of swift approval.