The Hill: US Army fired general leading its Poland-based corps that coordinates support to Ukraine. Former official cites drinking problem

The US Army has unexpectedly dismissed Lieutenant General Charles Costanza, who commanded the V Corps responsible for coordinating American support to Ukraine. The decision came two months prior to his expected resignation, according to ABC News. V Corps, partly stationed in Poland, has been instrumental in providing assistance to Ukraine and managing the US presence on NATO's eastern flank since the onset of Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine.

The Army announced the removal but did not disclose the reason. A service spokesperson stated that the circumstances remained unclear, and the matter was referred to the appropriate authority per Army regulations. Sources suggest that the decision was not politically motivated and was not initiated by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

Instead, it was reportedly due to conduct that could result in the grounding of a commander at any level, possibly including alcohol-related issues. Brigadier General John Mountford, the deputy commander for readiness, has assumed the role of acting commander. This move occurs during a period of significant upheaval in US military leadership, with over two dozen senior officers removed or sidelined under Hegseth, often without public explanation.

The timing of Costanza's removal also coincides with questions surrounding the US presence in Poland, amid recent controversies over the cancellation of a planned armored brigade deployment to Poland and President Trump's subsequent announcement of deploying 5,000 troops to the country.