China has confirmed that Zhang Youxia, one of Xi Jinping’s closest military allies and vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission, is under investigation, marking one of the most dramatic shake-ups in PLA leadership in decades. His fall has fueled debate over whether Beijing’s anti-corruption campaign has evolved into a tool of political control, with loyalty increasingly prioritized over professional judgment. As power becomes more centralized and trusted insiders disappear, what happens to decision-making, risk assessment, and the flow of honest advice at the top? In this episode, we examine the implications of Zhang’s removal for the PLA, Xi’s grip on power, and how these internal dynamics could shape China’s calculations — and miscalculations — toward Taiwan and the region.
*Recorded on January 28, 2026 at 1:15pm Taiwan Standard Time
Host: Ethan Liu
Producer: Tina Hsu
Our guests:
Wang Hao
- Writer and International Relations Commentator
Lai I-chung
- Prospect Foundation President
Xia Ming
- City University of New York Political Science Professor
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