China Purges Top Military Generals in Anti-Corruption Drive

Removal of two senior commanders raises concerns about stability and loyalty within the Chinese military.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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China has purged two high-ranking military generals, Gen. Zhang Youxia and Gen. Liu Zhenli, as part of President Xi Jinping's ongoing anti-corruption campaign. The official explanation cites 'grave violations of discipline and the law,' but analysts believe the removals may be tied to broader tensions and power struggles within the Chinese military leadership.

Why it matters

The purges leave the Central Military Commission, China's top military decision-making body, with only one member besides Xi Jinping, raising concerns about the stability and cohesion of the Chinese military. The removals also suggest potential friction between Xi and senior military leaders over issues like Taiwan and nuclear policy.

The details

According to the Chinese military's own newspaper, the purges are part of Xi's effort to strengthen the Communist Party's 'absolute leadership' over the military and root out corruption. However, the article also acknowledges the purges are causing 'short-term difficulties and pains' for the military. Analysts believe Gen. Zhang may have been removed for criticizing the prolonged anti-corruption campaign, which he saw as damaging morale and readiness.

  • Gen. Zhang Youxia and Gen. Liu Zhenli were placed under investigation in February 2026.

The players

Gen. Zhang Youxia

A senior Chinese military commander who was long considered a confidante of President Xi Jinping and served as a vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission.

Gen. Liu Zhenli

Another high-ranking Chinese military officer who was also placed under investigation as part of the purge.

Xi Jinping

The President of China and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, who has overseen a widespread anti-corruption campaign targeting the Chinese military.

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What’s next

The Chinese government is expected to install a new generation of military leaders loyal to President Xi as part of the ongoing purge.

The takeaway

The high-profile removals of these senior military commanders highlight the fragility and instability within China's armed forces, despite their outward appearance of strength. The purges underscore Xi Jinping's determination to assert the Communist Party's control over the military, even at the cost of disrupting the military's cohesion and readiness.