U.S. military leadership purge in Europe under Defense Secretary Hegseth
The developments in this story so far, most recent first.
-
Breaking
A top US general in Europe abruptly removed from command
No separate article for this desk or language yet.
-
· date approximate Background
U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to position 5,000 troops in Poland.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to position 5,000 troops in Poland.
-
· date approximate Background
The U.S. Department of Defense began downsizing the U.S. military footprint in Europe this year.
During 2026, the U.S. Department of Defense began a process of downsizing the American military footprint in Europe.
This reduction occurred alongside actions such as the abrupt cancellation of a planned deployment to Poland involving the U.S. Army's 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division.
-
· date approximate Background
Lt. Gen. Charles Costanza assumed command of the U.S. Army's V Corps in April 2024.
Lt. Gen. Charles Costanza, an armor officer, assumed command of the U.S. Army's V Corps in April 2024. The V Corps manages the American military footprint along NATO's frontlines and helps coordinate U.S. support for Kyiv.
The unit, which is partially based in Poland, has taken on an increasingly prominent role since the invasion of Ukraine by Russia.