7am Treason, coup plots and corruption: Behind Xi’s military purge
Jan 28, 2026
Rana Mitter, Harvard Kennedy School scholar on US‑Asia relations, provides analysis of Xi Jinping’s sweeping military purge. He explores the sacking of top generals, why family ties failed to shield elites, and what the shakeup means for China’s military posture and Taiwan. Short, sharp breakdowns of anti‑corruption reach, parade messaging and Xi’s tightening grip on power.
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Unprecedented Top-Level Military Purge
- Zhang Yuxia's removal is unprecedented at the top of the Central Military Commission.
- Five of six CMC members have now been purged, signaling a sweeping leadership overhaul.
Personal Ties Offer No Immunity
- Xi has purged even long-standing associates, showing personal ties don't guarantee protection.
- The anti-corruption drive is explicitly framed as defending the party's survival.
Consolidation Lowers Short-Term War Risk
- The purge appears aimed at consolidating Xi's personal control over the military.
- In the short term this inward focus likely reduces the chance of a major military confrontation.