US Army Removes Top General in Europe

Lieutenant General Charles Costanza, commander of the V Corps and one of the Pentagon's highest-ranking generals overseeing military operations in Europe, has been relieved of his command. The relief from duty occurred less than two months before the scheduled end of his term.

According to ABC News, the circumstances surrounding this move remain unclear. However, a source familiar with the situation stated that it is not related to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's broader effort to reorganize the military leadership and that there are no political consequences resulting from it.

Costanza had commanded the corps since April 2024. Brigadier General John B. Mountford has become the acting commander. Major General Thomas Feltey, the official successor, was confirmed by the Senate to take over command in October.

This corps, based in part in Poland, is responsible for coordinating US forces and operations in Europe. Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, it has played a key role in coordinating support for Kyiv and managing the military presence along NATO's front lines.

However, the Pentagon has reduced its military presence in Europe this year, canceling the deployment of the 2nd Armored Brigade from Fort Hood to Poland. US President Donald Trump later announced the deployment of 5,000 troops to Poland after the cancellation of the deployment drew criticism in Warsaw.

The removal comes amid broader personnel changes, during which more than two dozen high-ranking officers were dismissed or sidelined under Hegseth's leadership.

(max)