China’s military leadership is facing fresh unrest after officials confirmed investigations into two senior commanders. The case has drawn global attention after claims emerged that one of them leaked sensitive nuclear information to the United States.
China’s defense ministry said Zhang Youxia, vice-chairperson of the Central Military Commission (CMC), and Liu Zhenli, a top official in the CMC’s joint staff department, are under investigation for “suspected serious violations of discipline and law.”
The Central Military Commission controls the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and sits at the heart of China’s military power. Zhang is seen as one of the most influential figures in the armed forces and has long held the trust of the top leadership.
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An editorial in the PLA’s official newspaper, Liberation Army Daily, accused the two officials of “seriously betraying” the Communist Party and the CMC. It said their actions caused political and corruption problems that threatened the Party’s control over the military.
The situation took a dramatic turn after a Wall Street Journal report claimed Zhang leaked details of China’s nuclear weapons program to the US. The report also alleged he accepted bribes in return for official decisions, including backing for senior appointments. These claims have not been independently confirmed.
Zhang, 75, is a member of the Communist Party’s Politburo and is known as a close ally of President Xi Jinping. He was kept in office beyond the usual retirement age, a move widely seen as a sign of strong confidence in him.
The case comes during China’s long-running anti-corruption campaign, which has increasingly targeted the upper ranks of the PLA. Several senior officers and former defense leaders have faced investigations in recent years.
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Analysts say the probe into such a powerful figure could raise concerns about stability within China’s military leadership. This comes at a sensitive time as Beijing’s actions around Taiwan and disputed seas face intense international scrutiny.
Chinese authorities have not yet shared detailed charges beyond general disciplinary language. Meanwhile, outside reports continue to fuel speculation over what could become one of the most serious internal military cases in recent years.
