China's Military Shake-Up: What's Happening?

China is looking into two high-ranking military leaders, Zhang Youxia and Liu Zhenli, for possible serious rule-breaking. This news comes from the Ministry of National Defense. Zhang, who is 75, is a key figure in the military and a close associate of President Xi Jinping. He has combat experience, which is rare among top officials. Liu, on the other hand, is the chief of staff for the Central Military Commission's Joint Staff Department. This investigation is part of a larger effort to tackle corruption in the military. President Xi Jinping started this crackdown back in 2012. It has reached the highest levels, with eight top generals being expelled from the Communist Party in October 2025. Among them was He Weidong, the second-highest-ranking general in China.The impact of this crackdown is far-reaching. It has slowed down the procurement of advanced weaponry and affected the revenues of major military firms. Two former defense ministers have also been removed from the party for corruption. This shows that the military is not immune to the consequences of dishonest behavior. The military has always been a crucial part of China's power. It's not just about having the latest weapons. It's also about having leaders who are trustworthy and capable. The current investigations and purges highlight the challenges faced in maintaining discipline and transparency within the military ranks.