This week, we’re taking an in-depth look into the purge of China’s top generals—and what this means for the future of Xi Jinping’s rule.
Welcome to Foreign Policy’s China Brief.
This week, we’re taking an in-depth look into the purge of China’s top generals—and what this means for the future of Xi Jinping’s rule.
Sign up to receive China Brief in your inbox every Tuesday.
Top Generals Targeted in Military Purge
The arrest of Zhang Youxia, China’s top general, along with fellow senior general Liu Zhenli, has sent shockwaves through the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Accused of “grave violations of discipline and the law,” Zhang is the most senior figure purged under Chinese President Xi Jinping—and by far the most consequential.
Until recently, Zhang was widely seen as one of Xi’s closest allies. Xi appointed him first-ranking vice chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC) in 2022, effectively the highest operational military post, since Xi himself chairs the body.
Continue Reading on Foreign Policy
This preview shows approximately 15% of the article. Read the full story on the publisher's website to support quality journalism.