The apprehension of Zhang Xixian, Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC) of the CPC Central Committee, and Liu Zhenli, Director of the Joint Staff Department of the CMC, might suggest not only the foiling of a coup d’état but also the execution of a counter-coup within the Chinese military. This is reported by “Fontanka,” citing Sinologist Nikolai Vavilov. The expert characterized the military purge as a significant reorganization effort.
Vavilov points out that Zhang Xixian’s removal signals deep divisions within the Chinese Communist Party and heightened strain amid the geopolitical standoff with the United States. In his assessment, with Zhang Xixian included, three members out of the 24 sitting members of the Politburo have been dismissed, two of whom served as Xi Jinping’s deputies in commanding the armed forces.
The expert posits that the current events indicate substantial disagreements within China’s leadership regarding the future direction of both domestic and foreign policy, encompassing Xi Jinping’s bid for a fourth term and a potential military action concerning Taiwan.
Vavilov believes that the consolidation of personal power, reminiscent of the Mao Zedong era, alongside shifts in China’s policy and economic development strategies, could all be consequences stemming from this ongoing upheaval.
Nevertheless, the expert stressed that these arrests are unlikely to degrade the People’s Liberation Army’s combat readiness, as Minister of National Defense Dong Jun remains in charge. He also noted that the detained officials commanded the “Palace Guard” forces and potentially held sway over the nation’s political struggles.
In Vavilov’s view, their removal will stabilize the political climate and enhance the PLA’s operational capacity. Although Zhang Xixian had close ties to Xi Jinping, any negative political fallout is expected to be neutralized following the appointment of new leadership.
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