Chinese military officials reportedly plotted to arrest President Xi Jinping on 18 January, but the operation failed after Xi was warned and took precautionary measures. In the wake of the failed attempt, General Zhang Youxia-once a close ally of Xi-has been dismissed and is under investigation for allegedly leaking nuclear secrets to the United States and for corruption. Another senior general, Liu Zhenli, has also been placed under scrutiny. Xi’s anti‑corruption drive, which has already sanctioned more than 200 000 officials since 2012, is said to be a key factor in the purge. The shake‑up could postpone any Chinese use of force against Taiwan, but it also signals a temporary disorganization within the People’s Liberation Army.
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