China has opened an investigation into one of its most powerful military figures, a move that could trigger the most significant shake-up yet inside the People’s Liberation Army leadership.
Chinese authorities confirmed that Gen. Zhang Youxia, vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission and widely regarded as the second-most senior officer in China’s armed forces after President Xi Jinping, is under investigation for “serious violations of discipline and law.” Another senior official, Gen. Liu Zhenli, is also being investigated, according to multiple reports citing the official statement.
The case drew wider international attention after additional allegations emerged claiming Zhang is suspected of passing highly sensitive nuclear-related information to the United States, alongside corruption accusations. The claim has been reported by several outlets, but has not been publicly confirmed by Beijing, and details remain unclear.
If the nuclear leak allegation proves true, it would represent one of the most serious national-security breaches ever linked to the top levels of China’s military establishment. Analysts say the investigation is also likely to deepen uncertainty inside the PLA at a time when China continues to modernize its forces and emphasize strategic readiness.
Zhang has long been seen as a major power broker within China’s military system, with influence over senior appointments, planning, and internal command structure. Any disruption at that level would have ripple effects across China’s defense leadership and the wider political environment.
The investigation also comes amid a broader anti-corruption and discipline campaign that has already hit a growing number of senior military and defense-related officials in recent years. Observers say the latest probe suggests the internal crackdown has entered a new phase, where even the highest-ranking figures are no longer untouchable.