Xi Jinping's most important collaborator under the microscope of investigators. It's part of the action
In addition to Zhang Youxii, Liu Zhenli, also a member of the Central Military Commission, was also investigated. As part of the operation, which has been ongoing since 2012, over 200,000 have already been fined. people. This time – as Reuters emphasizes – the matter is particularly serious because it concerns two high-ranking military officials who play an important role in the Chinese army. However, the ministry's statement did not provide details indicating exactly what crimes Zhang Youxia and Liu Zhenli are suspected of.
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Xi Jinping continues his purge of China's military
As Reuters reminds, 75-year-old Zhang Youxia is widely perceived as President Xi Jinping's closest military ally and one of the few top officers with extensive combat experience. He is one of the two vice-chairmen of the CMC, the highest command organization of China's armed forces. In addition, he is a member of the elite Politburo of the ruling Communist Party.
Zhang's removal from office is the second dismissal of a general at the Central Military Commission since the Cultural Revolution of 1966-1976. Zhang has not appeared in public since November 20, 2025, when he held talks with the Russian defense minister in Moscow.
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“Foreign diplomats and security analysts are closely watching developments, given Zhang's closeness to Xi and the command importance of the commission's work,” Reuters reports. The agency also reminds that in October 2025, as part of a nationwide action, eight generals were expelled from the Communist Party on charges of corruption. This group included, among others: the country's second highest general, He Weidong, who served alongside Zhang on the Central Military Commission.
