US removes general who oversaw military support for Ukraine
One of the key US generals, Charles Costanza, who was responsible for US military operations in Europe and coordination of support for Ukraine, has been relieved of command ahead of schedule, according to ABC News.
The official in question is Lieutenant General Charles Costanza, who commanded the US Army's V Corps. According to a military official, Costanza was removed from command within the last few days — nearly two months before the end of his term.
The reasons for this decision are currently unknown.
Costanza's removal comes amid broader changes within the top US military leadership. According to ABC News, more than two dozen senior officers have been removed or suspended from their duties during Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's tenure, often without public explanation.
However, a source familiar with the situation surrounding Costanza stated that his removal is unrelated to Hegseth's wider efforts to reshape US military leadership and has no political basis.
Major General Thomas Felty is to replace Costanza. His nomination has already been confirmed by the US Senate, with the change of command originally scheduled for October.
Costanza's role
The V Corps is responsible for managing US Army forces and coordinating military operations in Europe. Some of its units are based in Poland.
Following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the corps' role became more prominent. It helped coordinate US support for Kyiv and oversaw the American military presence on NATO's front line.
Costanza, an armor specialist, had led the V Corps since April 2024. Before that, he commanded the 3rd Infantry Division at Fort Stewart, Georgia.
Currently, Brigadier General John B. Mountford, the corps' deputy commander for readiness, is serving as acting commander of the V Corps.
US reducing military presence in Europe
ABC News also highlights that the Pentagon has reduced the US military presence in Europe this year.
One of the most notable decisions was the abrupt cancellation of the planned deployment to Poland of the 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, based at Fort Hood, Texas.
After the decision drew criticism from Warsaw, US President Donald Trump stated that the US would station 5,000 troops in Poland.
