Xi Jinping Removes Two Senior Generals in Latest Chinese Military Purge

Chinese President Xi Jinping has removed two of the country’s most senior military commanders, intensifying an ongoing purge within the armed forces over alleged corruption and disciplinary violations.

General Zhang Youxia, once Xi’s top military aide and vice chairman of the Chinese Communist Party’s Central Military Commission (CMC), has been ousted from his position. Zhang, a Politburo member, was second only to Xi in China’s military hierarchy. Also removed is General Liu Zhenli, the chief of staff of the CMC’s Joint Staff Department and a member of the powerful commission.

According to reports, both officers are under investigation for suspected “serious violations of discipline and law.” Chinese authorities have not provided further details on the allegations.

Analysts say the move is unprecedented. Former CIA analyst Christopher Johnson described the development as a historic shake-up, arguing that it amounts to a near-total dismantling of China’s military high command. Johnson, now president of China Strategies Group, suggested the purge reflects Xi’s growing distrust of long-serving commanders and a desire to pave the way for younger generals.

Zhang Youxia, a childhood friend of Xi, had long been seen as one of the president’s closest military allies. However, Xi has steadily removed top military figures as part of a sweeping anti-corruption campaign aimed at consolidating control and enforcing loyalty within the ranks.

The ouster of Zhang and Liu makes them the fourth and fifth senior military leaders removed since late November 2024. Of the CMC members appointed by Xi in 2022, only General Zhang Shengmin remains alongside the president. Shengmin has overseen the disciplinary actions against the other purged generals.

While neither Zhang Youxia nor Liu Zhenli has been formally convicted, past cases suggest that senior officers accused under similar circumstances are rarely cleared of wrongdoing.