Beijing: Unusual developments within China’s military establishment have sparked widespread attention across the world. An investigation has reportedly been launched against General Zhang Youxia, a close confidant of President Xi Jinping and the second-highest-ranking officer in the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), raising serious questions about internal stability within China’s armed forces.
The move has led to intense discussion in China over why President Xi would act against one of his most trusted associates. General Zhang, long regarded as a key pillar of the PLA, is now facing multiple allegations. While corruption charges are part of the inquiry, reports suggesting he leaked highly sensitive nuclear weapons information to the United States have sent shockwaves internationally.
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Xi Jinping and Zhang Youxia are believed to have shared a close relationship since childhood, making the investigation particularly striking. Despite this, China’s defence authorities have ordered a formal probe into the senior general.
According to international media reports, including those from The Wall Street Journal, Zhang is accused of sharing classified technical details with the US, including information related to China’s nuclear stockpile and weapons systems. He is also alleged to have accepted large bribes in exchange for military promotions and appointments, while favouring loyalists within the ranks. There are further suspicions that he attempted to build a faction within the military opposed to President Xi’s leadership.
Since assuming power, Xi Jinping has removed several officials as part of efforts to consolidate control over the armed forces. However, action against an officer of Zhang’s stature is being described as unprecedented in nearly three decades. The investigation has also renewed recent social media speculation about internal unrest within the Chinese military, with many drawing possible links between those rumours and the current developments.
Analysts note that instability within the PLA is significant, particularly as China remains engaged in recurring border tensions with neighbouring countries. Internal leadership conflicts could potentially impact China’s defence posture and strategic planning. Questions are now being raised over whether Beijing has failed to safeguard even its most sensitive nuclear secrets.
The situation is being closely monitored in India as well. At a time when China continues to adopt an assertive stance along the border, investigations involving top military leadership could influence Beijing’s defence strategies and decision-making processes.