ChinaTalk
PLA Purges + Taiwan War Risk
Oct 25, 2023
In this discussion, Joel Wuthnow, a senior research fellow at the National Defense University, shares his expertise on China's recent military purges under Xi Jinping. He explains how these purges reflect Xi's ongoing distrust within the PLA and highlight systemic corruption issues. Wuthnow also delves into the implications for Taiwan, pointing out the risks of military conflict as Xi advances hypersonic missile capabilities. Amidst the reshuffling, the potential for an aggressive miscalculation regarding Taiwan remains, showcasing the complexities of Chinese military ambitions.
58:00
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Quick takeaways
- Xi Jinping's purges of high-ranking members of the PLA reflect his mistrust in the military and signal potential issues within the PLA.
- The lack of civilian oversight and limited external control within the PLA, stemming from Deng Xiaoping's reforms, have contributed to the challenges faced by Xi Jinping in addressing transparency and corruption within the military.
Deep dives
Xi Jinping's Trust Issues and Purges in the PLA
Xi Jinping has purged several PLA generals, indicating a lack of trust and confidence in his senior leadership. These purges have raised questions about the state of the People's Liberation Army and the rumors surrounding the missing senior generals. The purges suggest a lack of trust in Xi's inner circle and potential issues within the PLA.
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