China's Disappearing Generals

The Journal examines the political implications of the ousting of General Zhang Youxia, a high-ranking official in China's People's Liberation Army, and its impact on Xi Jinping's control and foreign policy. Once considered Xi's right-hand man, Zhang is now under investigation for corruption, bribery, and allegedly leaking nuclear secrets to the U.S. Xi's removal of Zhang and other senior generals signals his consolidation of power and a crackdown on any potential challenges to his authority. This shift occurs as China modernizes its military, with a focus on Taiwan, and disagreements over timelines for reunification may have fueled the rift between Xi and Zhang. While some analysts believe the purges may hinder military action, China is also increasing coercive campaigns against Taiwan, and the U.S.'s response is being interpreted by Beijing as a lack of resolve to defend Taiwan.