The recent personnel changes in the top leadership of the People’s Liberation Army of China indicate a complete consolidation of power in the hands of Xi Jinping. After eliminating opponents, the Chinese leader has gained unrestricted control over military structures, paving the way for the potential realization of plans regarding Taiwan.
This is reported by Finway
Arrest of Zhang Youxia and Xi’s Confidence in the Course on Taiwan
The dismissal and arrest of General Zhang Youxia, whom Xi Jinping referred to as “older brother,” marked a key moment in consolidating power. This has removed the last internal voices capable of restraining the Chinese leader from decisive actions regarding Taiwan. The official reason for the arrest was cited as corruption and the transfer of classified information to the U.S., however, there is a growing narrative about differing approaches between Zhang and Xi regarding the military’s readiness timeline for a possible conflict. Xi insisted on achieving “operational readiness” by 2027, while Zhang considered a more realistic timeline to be by 2035.
“The arrest of General Zhang Youxia, a close ally and childhood friend whom the Chinese leader referred to as ‘older brother,’ eliminates any internal authoritative voices that could hinder Xi from taking any actions against Taiwan, a democratic, self-governing island that Beijing considers part of its territory,” the publication states.
According to experts, Zhang’s removal indicates Xi Jinping’s growing confidence in the prospect of “reunification” of Taiwan with China. This is also related to the assessment of Washington’s determination to defend its ally. Beijing believes that the current U.S. President Trump is unlikely to intervene in a potential large-scale conflict in the Taiwan Strait.
Beijing’s Strategies: Military Pressure or Hybrid Subjugation
Some analysts are convinced that the purges in China’s military leadership may have even reduced the likelihood of direct war in the near future. In their view, Xi Jinping is now focusing on a strategy of gradual subjugation of Taiwan without openly using force. Beijing is expected to ramp up military exercises near the island, simulating a maritime and aerial blockade for psychological pressure, as well as intensifying economic pressure and cyberattacks.
Taiwanese officials are already reporting frequent cyberattacks from China aimed at disrupting energy and medical infrastructure. Concurrently, Beijing is trying to diplomatically isolate Taiwan, intimidating countries friendly to the island, primarily Japan.