Reuters: Pentagon removes senior military leader from Joint Staff post

US Vice Admiral Fred Kacher has been relieved of his duties as director of the Joint Staff, just months after assuming the role in December, three people familiar with the situation told Reuters.

A Joint Staff spokesperson confirmed that Kacher will "return to service" with the US Navy following his departure from the position. 

Joseph Holstead, the spokesperson, did not give any explanation for why Kacher was removed.

One source suggested he was not the right fit for the post. However, the sources who spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity did not indicate if there was any particular incident that prompted the decision.

"We are deeply grateful for Vice Adm. Kacher's dedicated service to the Joint Force and his contributions to the Joint Staff," General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said in a statement shared with Reuters.

The director of the Joint Staff plays a central role in supporting the chairman and is regarded as one of the most critical three-star positions in the Pentagon, often paving the way for high-profile promotions, including leadership of combatant commands.

By Jeyhun Aghazada