Xi Jinping Breaks Silence on Major Military Purge, Citing 'Fight Against Corruption'

Beijing. Chinese President Xi Jinping has, for the first time, publicly commented on the recent major crackdown within the military and the dismissal of top generals. After removing generals considered among his most trusted aides, Xi has termed the action a 'fight against corruption'.

Addressing the military virtually on the occasion of the Chinese New Year on Tuesday, Xi stated that the past year was 'extraordinary and abnormal'. He mentioned that the military had faced a 'revolutionary cleansing' in the fight against corruption. This is the first time since 2022 that he has raised the issue of corruption in his annual address.

Xi's 'Right-Hand Men' Targeted
In January, 75-year-old General Zhang Youxia was removed from his post. Zhang was considered Xi Jinping's closest military ally. 

He served as the Vice Chairman of the powerful Central Military Commission (CMC). Along with him, another senior official, General Liu Zhenli, was also dismissed.

They have been accused of 'serious violations of discipline and law'. This terminology is often used in China when removing political rivals or corrupt officials.

Xi's actions have intensified recently. In October 2025, nine top generals were dismissed. According to statistics, in the last three years, 14 'full-rank' generals have been dismissed or have come under investigation.

The continuous action has left China's most powerful military body, the Central Military Commission (CMC), almost empty. Only two members, including Xi Jinping, remain in this 7-member commission. This has caused major upheaval at the leadership level of the Chinese military.

Why Did Xi Need to Speak?
Xi Jinping rarely holds press conferences or gives interviews. His public clarification regarding internal military actions is considered significant. It is analyzed that he made this statement to reassure party cadres and the public, amid concerns that removing many high-ranking officials at once could affect military morale and combat readiness.

In his address, he claimed that the People's Liberation Army (PLA) had effectively resolved various risks and challenges and that the military remained loyal to the party.

Since coming to power, Xi Jinping has consistently stated that eradicating corruption is a cornerstone of his rule. However, critics often interpret this as a strategy to eliminate political opponents and consolidate his grip on power.

According to Professor Chong Ja Ian of the National University of Singapore, it is difficult to ascertain from the outside whether this action is truly for corruption or for political struggle. However, it sends a strong message that those who defy Xi's will or are disloyal will face severe punishment.