Story perspectives

Xi's Anti-Corruption Drive Targets PLA Amid CIA Tensions

3/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

Xi Jinping reaffirmed the People's Liberation Army (PLA) anti-corruption campaign, stressing loyalty to the Communist Party and oversight for the five-year plan.
The crackdown followed dismissal of several senior PLA commanders, including Zhang Youxia, amid misconduct allegations.
Xi's crackdown caused expulsions from the Central Military Commission.
Western media reported that the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is targeting PLA members for recruitment, prompting strong condemnation from the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

History

Historical Context

Xi Jinping initiated a comprehensive anti-corruption campaign in 2014, targeting over 1.5 million officials, including high-ranking military leaders like Zhang Youxia. This campaign, which began after the 18th National Congress in 2012, aimed to reinforce party loyalty and discipline amid widespread corruption. As of 2023, approximately 2.3 million officials have faced prosecution, highlighting ongoing power struggles within China's political landscape.

1 of 2

Story summary

Xi Jinping reaffirmed the People's Liberation Army (PLA) anti-corruption campaign, stressing loyalty to the Communist Party and oversight for the five-year plan.
The crackdown followed dismissal of several senior PLA commanders, including Zhang Youxia, amid misconduct allegations.
Xi's crackdown caused expulsions from the Central Military Commission.
Western media reported that the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is targeting PLA members for recruitment, prompting strong condemnation from the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

1 / 2