Xi Jinping’s Military Purge Raises Questions About China’s Taiwan Ambitions

A sweeping purge of senior officers within the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) initiated by Chinese President Xi Jinping since 2022 is prompting concerns about the military’s readiness and potentially impacting China’s territorial ambitions, particularly regarding Taiwan. The scale of the crackdown, affecting approximately 52% of the PLA’s top leadership positions, is unprecedented and raises questions about the stability and effectiveness of the Chinese military.

The Depth of the Purge

According to a report released by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) on February 25, 2026, at least 101 generals and lieutenant generals have been purged or are under investigation since 2022. This includes the recent investigation into General Zhang Youxia, the military’s second-highest-ranking official, for alleged “violations of discipline and law.” Only one of the six generals appointed to the Central Military Commission (CMC) in 2022 remains in their post.

Motivations Behind the Purge

Xi Jinping has consistently emphasized the need to eliminate corruption and enhance political loyalty within the PLA. The current purge is aimed at achieving these goals, while also addressing perceived shortcomings in the PLA’s leadership and performance. The CSIS report highlights Xi Jinping’s dissatisfaction with the PLA leadership. Accusations against removed officials, such as Zhang Youxia and General Liu Zhenli, include betraying the party’s trust, undermining Xi’s authority, and fostering corruption that compromised the military’s effectiveness.

Impact on Military Readiness

The removal of experienced leaders and the influx of inexperienced replacements are creating challenges for the PLA. “Empty positions” and newly promoted officers lacking sufficient experience could hinder the PLA’s ability to conduct large-scale military operations, such as an amphibious assault or blockade of Taiwan. Evidence suggests a decline in the speed with which the PLA can mobilize for exercises around Taiwan; exercises that took three to four days to launch in 2024 required 19 days in April 2025 and 12 days in December 2025.

Implications for Taiwan

Analysts suggest that the ongoing purge may make Xi Jinping more cautious about initiating a military conflict with Taiwan. An invasion of Taiwan, a complex and risky operation, could prove disastrous for Xi’s legitimacy if unsuccessful. Despite the challenges, the PLA retains considerable influence, and China has various options for responding to perceived provocations without requiring a fully coordinated and effective military operation.

Recent Developments

In February 2026, China sacked nine senior military officers, widening the crackdown. The 73rd Army, belonging to the PLA’s Eastern Theatre Command responsible for potential Taiwan operations, was among those affected.

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) noted in a February 6, 2026 update that the investigations into senior PLA officers suggest Xi Jinping perceived them as undermining his leadership and military modernization objectives.