China Investigates Top Military Leaders: Zhang Youxia and Liu Zhenli Probed for “Serious Violations”

China’s Ministry of National Defense has confirmed that two of the People’s Liberation Army’s most senior figures — General Zhang Youxia and General Liu Zhenli — are under formal investigation for suspected “serious violations of discipline and the law” following a decision by the Party Central Committee.

This announcement marks one of the most significant developments in Beijing’s ongoing efforts to reform the military and enforce strict party discipline among top ranks.

Who Are the Officials Under Investigation?

General Zhang Youxia serves as Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), China’s highest military decision-making body, and is also a member of the CCP Political Bureau — one of the most powerful organs of the Chinese Communist Party. At 75 years old, Zhang has had a long career in the PLA, joining in 1968 and rising through key command positions in China’s ground forces.

General Liu Zhenli is the Chief of Staff of the CMC Joint Staff Department, responsible for coordinating operational planning and command functions within China’s armed forces. He previously served in senior leadership positions within the PLA Ground Force.

Allegations and Official Statements

The Defense Ministry public statement did not detail specific actions or evidence related to the accusations, asserting only that the two generals are “suspected of serious violations of discipline and the law.” This phrase is an established euphemism within the CCP for corruption and related misconduct.

The disciplinary process initiated against both officials is understood to involve internal party supervision bodies and could ultimately lead to criminal prosecution or expulsion from the Chinese Communist Party, depending on findings.

Context: A Broader Anti-Corruption and Reform Campaign

The investigations form part of a long-running anti-corruption campaign launched by President Xi Jinping since 2012, which has reached deep into both civilian and military leadership ranks. Over the last decade, thousands of officials — including several high-ranking generals — have been disciplined, dismissed, or prosecuted for graft and other violations.

In recent years, the PLA has seen several other senior figures removed from power or expelled, including eight top generals in 2025 and previous defense ministers on corruption charges.

Analysts believe the campaign serves a dual purpose: combating corruption that can undermine military effectiveness and consolidating political loyalty within the armed forces.

Significance and Implications

The investigation of Zhang Youxia is especially notable given his stature as one of the most senior serving generals and his role as a key military leader within the CCP hierarchy. Experts say this development could signal both an intensification of anti-graft efforts in the PLA and a tightening of President Xi’s control over the military apparatus.

Observers are watching closely for potential impacts on China’s defense policy, military modernization projects, and broader internal power dynamics within the Communist Party. Analysts note that such high-level probes are rare and may carry significant political and strategic implications.