Amid Xi Jinping’s Military Crackdown, China Probes Top PLA Generals for Serious Violations

In a dramatic escalation of President Xi Jinping’s sweeping anti-corruption drive, china has launched investigations into two of its most senior military commanders, signalling one of the most significant purges within the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in decades. The move underscores Xi’s continued effort to tighten control over the armed forces amid an ambitious military modernisation push.

The Chinese Defence Ministry confirmed on Saturday that General Zhang Youxia, vice-chairman of the powerful Central Military Commission (CMC), is being investigated for “grave violations of discipline and regulations” of the ruling Communist Party. The development was first reported by international news agencies including Reuters and PTI.

Zhang Youxia has long been regarded as the de facto second-in-command of China’s armed forces and one of President Xi Jinping’s closest and most trusted military allies. His fall from grace, if confirmed, would mark a rare and extraordinary event in modern Chinese military history.

Another top general under scrutiny

Alongside Zhang, the Defence Ministry also announced that General Liu Zhenli, chief of staff of the CMC’s Joint Staff Department, is facing a parallel investigation. Liu plays a crucial role in operational planning and coordination across China’s military branches.

According to a statement cited by PTI, “After deliberation by the CPC Central Committee, it was decided to initiate an investigation into Zhang Youxia and Liu Zhenli.” The wording indicates that the decision was taken at the highest level of the Communist Party leadership.

Hong Kong-based media outlets, citing informed sources, reported that military anti-corruption authorities formally took Zhang into custody earlier this week. He is alleged to have been involved in corruption, failed to properly supervise family members and close associates, and did not promptly report emerging problems to party officials.

Rare and politically sensitive development

Zhang’s sudden disappearance from public view has raised eyebrows among foreign diplomats and China watchers. He has not been seen in public since mid-November, when he met the Russian defence minister in Moscow. Experts note that since the Cultural Revolution, a serving CMC general has reportedly fallen from power only twice, highlighting the exceptional nature of the current investigation.

The timing of the probe is particularly significant as it coincides with Beijing’s aggressive military modernisation programme, aimed at enhancing China’s ability to project power across the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.

Xi Jinping’s anti-corruption drive in the military

Since assuming power in 2012, President Xi has made anti-corruption a cornerstone of his governance strategy, with the PLA being a key focus. Over the years, numerous high-ranking officers have been removed, including two former defence ministers.

In recent months, the campaign has gathered renewed momentum. Former CMC vice-chairman He Weidong was expelled from both the Communist Party and the armed forces, while several other senior generals and security officials were stripped of their positions.

Chinese authorities argue that the crackdown strengthens discipline and loyalty within the military. However, analysts caution that it has also slowed weapons procurement and disrupted operations at major defence firms. State media has previously reported that more than one million officials across China have been punished under Xi’s anti-graft campaign.

Who is Zhang Youxia?

Zhang Youxia, a native of Beijing, joined the PLA in 1968 and steadily rose through the ranks. He is one of the few senior Chinese military leaders with actual combat experience, having participated in border conflicts with Vietnam in 1979 and 1984.

State media has credited Zhang’s battlefield experience with shaping his strong advocacy for advanced weaponry, improved troop training, and modern combat tactics. His reputation as a seasoned and capable commander helped cement his influence within the military establishment.

According to a 2023 report by the US Department of Defense, Zhang was expected to retire several years ago but was retained, likely because President Xi valued his experience and loyalty during a critical phase of military reform.

As investigations into Zhang Youxia and Liu Zhenli unfold, the developments are being closely watched both within China and internationally, given their potential implications for the balance of power inside the PLA and Xi Jinping’s grip over the country’s armed forces.