China Launches Military Investigation into Zhang Youxia

On January 24, 2026, Chinese authorities announced that Zhang Youxia, Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission, is under investigation for suspected serious violations of discipline and law, quickly attracting international attention.

Zhang holds high-ranking positions both in the People’s Liberation Army and as a member of the CCP Politburo, long regarded as a key figure in the military, second only to CCP Central Military Commission Chairman Xi Jinping. His father, Zhang Zongsun, was a close strategic adviser and trusted confidant of Xi, further enhancing Zhang Youxia’s influence in both military and political spheres.

Also under investigation is Liu Zhenli, Chief of Staff of the Joint Staff Department of the Central Military Commission. The Chinese Ministry of Defense issued a brief statement without detailing specific charges, but PLA media emphasized that Zhang and Liu had “seriously undermined the responsibility system of the military commission” and called on the entire military to maintain alignment with the CCP.

This represents one of the highest-level purges in the PLA since Xi Jinping came to power in 2012. Over the past decade, anti-corruption campaigns have gradually extended into the military, with dozens of generals removed or investigated. This latest probe targeting top military leadership is especially rare.

Observers in China and international security analysts view this as part of Xi’s further consolidation and control over the PLA, signaling heightened demands for loyalty. A Brookings Institution analysis noted that Zhang Youxia’s investigation reflects Xi’s determination to firmly control the military, while raising questions about transparency and personnel stability within the PLA.

Some analysts warn that large-scale purges may temporarily disrupt command cohesion. The number of senior commanders in the Central Military Commission has been significantly reduced, potentially affecting decision-making efficiency and temporarily lowering the likelihood of high-risk operations, such as those near Taiwan. On the other hand, successors within the PLA may accelerate joint operational training and exercises under pressure, advancing China’s military modernization.