Overview

• Since chairing a key Politburo meeting on June 30, Xi has avoided further public engagements, deepening questions about his health and authority.
• Indian media speculation of an internal “commissariamento” has intensified rumors of a power struggle within the CCP without concrete evidence.
• Xi’s absence from the early July BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro underscored unpredictable Chinese participation in major diplomatic forums.
• A recent anti-corruption purge targeting senior military officials points to ongoing consolidation of Xi’s control despite his low profile.
• Tensions with India have risen after Xi publicly expressed irritation at Narendra Modi’s actions, adding diplomatic strain to Beijing’s leadership uncertainties.