Evelyn Farkas, deputy assistant secretary of defense for Russia, Ukraine and Eurasia, is leaving her post after five years with the Defense Department, a senior defense official confirmed to Politico.
"She has advised three secretaries of defense on Russia policy, providing steady counsel on how the US should respond to Russia's aggressive actions and has been deeply involved in securing $244 million in support for Ukraine," the senior official said.
"In addition, Evelyn has brought fresh thinking to Southeast Europe policies–supporting Montenegro's interest in joining NATO, expanding defense cooperation with Georgia, and increasing multilateral cooperation with the three Caucasus nations."
Another senior defense official said the Pentagon will be left "weaker" by the departure of Farkas, who also previously served as assistant secretary of defense, among numerous other senior defense posts.
"There are not a lot of Europe experts in this administration who have a long record of accomplishment," the official said. "There's no doubt this leaves the Pentagon weaker in terms of its policy-making on European issues."
Farkas' resignation comes at a time when President Barack Obama's national security team is divided over how to respond to Ukraine's requests for lethal aid in response to what Washington believes is Russian aggression.
While the president opposes such action, some officials, including Defense Secretary Ash Carter, have indicated they would consider it.
