Xi Jinping

Also known as: Xi · President Xi · Chinese President Xi Jinping · President Xi Jinping · China president · General Secretary Xi · Chairman Mao's successor · Chinese leader Xi Jinping · China's top leader

Chinese leader who held consecutive calls with Putin and Trump this week, amid purges of senior military generals from China's Central Military Commission.

World & Region

China removes senior generals in unprecedented military leadership purge

The News

China's top military general Zhang Youxia and another senior officer Gen Liu Zhenli have been purged, leaving the Central Military Commission with only Xi Jinping and one other member—a historic consolidation blamed officially on corruption but possibly reflecting power consolidation. Analysts warn the purge creates a leadership void that could hamper military decision-making and escalate risks involving Taiwan.

27 January 2026 · The Namibian →

Tuesday 27 January

China removes senior generals in unprecedented military leadership purge
China's top military general Zhang Youxia and another senior officer Gen Liu Zhenli have been purged, leaving the Central Military Commission with only Xi Jinping and one other member—a historic consolidation blamed officially on corruption but possibly reflecting power consolidation. Analysts warn the purge creates a leadership void that could hamper military decision-making and escalate risks involving Taiwan.
27 January 2026 · The Namibian →