Xi Jinping Orders Probe into Two Senior Chinese Military Commanders

High-Level Military Investigation in China

According to Главком: Chinese leader Xi Jinping has ordered an investigation into two senior military commanders, Zhang Youxia and Liu Zhenli. The Chinese Ministry of Defense has confirmed the launch of the probe. Western analysts link this move to the ongoing, sweeping anti-corruption campaign that has been a hallmark of Xi's tenure.

Zhang Youxia, a former vice chairman of the Central Military Commission, and Liu Zhenli, the former head of the People's Liberation Army's Joint Staff Department, are the latest targets in a broader campaign that intensified in 2023. Since the start of the year, over 20 high-ranking military officials have come under scrutiny. This persistent effort underscores the political and institutional challenges within the world's largest military.

According to reports from The Wall Street Journal, Zhang is suspected of leaking U.S. nuclear technology secrets and accepting bribes for personnel appointments. Beijing has not officially confirmed these specific allegations against Zhang. As noted by the PLA Daily, the individuals have 'seriously violated the responsibility system to the chairman of the Central Military Commission.' The investigation could have significant repercussions for China's military and political systems, highlighting the leadership's drive to root out corruption at the highest levels of power.

China's Sustained Anti-Corruption Drive

This probe is part of a large-scale anti-corruption campaign that has been underway in China for several years, aimed at purging corrupt elements from the military ranks and state institutions. Xi Jinping's efforts to combat graft are intended to consolidate control over the armed forces and maintain domestic stability, particularly amid rising international tensions and internal scrutiny of elite power.

The outcome of this investigation may influence the future trajectory of China's political landscape and its international relations, especially concerning security and defense policy matters.