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Xi Jinping Purges Military Leadership in Historic Shakeup

2/11/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Xi Jinping, President of the People's Republic of China, removed senior general Zhang Youxia on February 11, 2026, as part of a purge that reduced the Central Military Commission to two members.
Analysts say such purges have not occurred since Mao Zedong's era.
Some argue the PLA's modernization efforts remain intact.
Others warn that the lack of experienced leaders could undermine military effectiveness and fuel insecurity within Xi's regime.

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Story summary

Xi Jinping, President of the People's Republic of China, removed senior general Zhang Youxia on February 11, 2026, as part of a purge that reduced the Central Military Commission to two members.
Analysts say such purges have not occurred since Mao Zedong's era.
Some argue the PLA's modernization efforts remain intact.
Others warn that the lack of experienced leaders could undermine military effectiveness and fuel insecurity within Xi's regime.