The Army removed Lieutenant General Charles Costanza, commander of V Corps, from command almost two months before the end of his term at the head of one of the main US military structures deployed in Europe. The dismissal was confirmed by the Army, after two US officials reported the change to The Hill on condition of anonymity because it was an internal personnel matter.

Military authorities have not publicly explained what caused Costanza's departure. An Army spokesperson said the matter was “referred to the appropriate authority in accordance with Army regulations.”

The decision comes at a time of important changes within the US military leadership. More than two dozen high-ranking officials have been removed or separated from their responsibilities since Pete Hegseth took over as defense secretary, although sources familiar with the case said Costanza's departure was not politically motivated or ordered by Hegseth.

One of the sources consulted by The Hill described the situation as conduct that “could lead to the dismissal of a commander at any level.”

Costanza leaves command earlier than expected

Costanza assumed leadership of V Corps in April 2024. The military corps has facilities at Fort Knox, Kentucky, and Camp Kościuszko, Poland, and plays a strategic role in coordinating U.S. ground operations with European allies. Its importance increased after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, due to the need to coordinate US and NATO forces on Europe's eastern flank, as well as contributing to operations related to Washington's military support for kyiv.

On an interim basis, command will be led by Brigadier General John B. Mountford, current deputy commanding general for readiness of V Corps. The final replacement was already scheduled for October. Maj. Gen. Thomas Feltey, who was recently nominated for promotion to lieutenant general, will then assume command. Feltey previously commanded the 1st Cavalry Division, based at Fort Hood, Texas.

Prior to leading V Corps, Costanza served as deputy commanding general of U.S. Army Europe and Africa and commanded the 3rd Infantry Division at Fort Stewart, Georgia. He also has a master's degree in military studies from American Military University.

Military changes generate attention in Europe

Costanza's departure comes as the Pentagon modifies part of its military presence in Europe. In May, the planned deployment of the 2nd Armored Combat Brigade of the 1st Cavalry Division to Poland was cancelled, a decision that generated criticism among authorities in that country. President Donald Trump subsequently announced that the United States would send 5,000 additional troops to Poland.

However, in late July, Rep. Don Bacon, Republican of Nebraska and member of the House Armed Services Committee, said the Army brigade had not yet been deployed.

Polish Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz had indicated in June that the return of US troops would take place in the following weeks. In this context, Costanza's dismissal adds another unexpected change to the US military structure in Europe, although authorities have not publicly established a relationship between the two events.

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