Overview
- The Defense Ministry said Gen. Zhang Youxia and Gen. Liu Zhenli are under investigation for “serious violations of discipline and law.”
- A PLA Daily editorial accused the generals of fostering political and corruption problems that weakened party control over the military.
- Following earlier removals, reporting indicates the CMC now effectively consists of Xi Jinping and disciplinary chief Gen. Zhang Shengmin, with no successors named.
- The Wall Street Journal reported an allegation that Zhang leaked nuclear program data to the United States, a claim not confirmed by Chinese or U.S. officials.
- Experts say the ousters deepen Xi’s consolidation of military authority but could disrupt command experience and near-term PLA readiness, even as the anti-graft drive has swept out dozens since 2023.