China has launched an investigation into its highest-ranking military general, Zhang Youxia, and another senior officer, Gen. Liu Zhenli, for alleged violations of discipline and law. The move leaves only two members—President Xi Jinping and Gen. Zhang Shengmin—on the powerful Central Military Commission (CMC), which oversees the People's Liberation Army (PLA).
Immediate Action & Core Facts
The Defence Ministry announced the investigation on Saturday, citing unspecified serious violations. The purge follows previous waves of detentions under Xi's anti-corruption campaign. Taiwan's Defence Minister, Wellington Koo, described the changes as "abnormal" and warned that China's military threat remains high.
Deeper Dive & Context
Leadership Void and Speculation
Experts suggest the purge has left the PLA in disarray, with a "major leadership void," according to Lyle Morris of the Asia Society Policy Institute. Rumors range from nuclear secrets leaks to coup plotting, though no official evidence has been released. Chong Ja Ian of the National University of Singapore noted the lack of clarity but acknowledged widespread speculation.
Impact on Regional Security
Analysts warn the shakeup could affect China's military readiness, particularly regarding Taiwan. Neil Thomas of the Asia Society Policy Institute called it one of the biggest purges in China's history. Craig Singleton of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies said Xi is prioritizing political control over the PLA, ensuring loyalty before potential high-risk operations.
Taiwan's Response
Taiwan is monitoring the changes closely, using intelligence-sharing and surveillance to assess China's intentions. Defence Minister Koo emphasized that Taiwan will not lower its guard, as China has not abandoned the use of force against the island. Beijing regularly conducts military drills near Taiwan, which Taipei views as harassment.
Historical Parallels
Some analysts compare the purge to Stalin-era purges, while others draw parallels to Soviet leadership moves before the 1979 invasion of Afghanistan. The lack of transparency makes definitive conclusions difficult, but the scale of the purge signals internal instability.