Espionage and transfer of data on the nuclear program: one of Xi Jinping’s closest associates was detained in China
Фото: REUTERS
China has launched an investigation into Zhang Yuxia, vice chairman of the Central Military Commission, on suspicion of serious violations of discipline and the law as part of a massive anti-corruption campaign.
This is reported by the Xinhua news agency.
China’s Defense Ministry confirmed that Zhang Yuxia is under investigation in what China calls one of the most high-profile cases in a current wave of high-ranking military investigations. Officials have not disclosed details of the charges.
The Wall Street Journal, citing its own sources, reported that the general is suspected of passing classified information to the United States, in particular regarding China’s nuclear program. It also alleges that he may have received bribes for making personnel decisions in the armed forces.
Official Beijing does not comment on these allegations, and there is currently no independent confirmation of the data provided by journalists. At the same time, it is known that Zhang Yuxia has not appeared at public events since November 20, when he held talks with the Russian Defense Minister in Moscow.
Zhang Yuxia was considered one of President Xi Jinping’s closest military allies and effectively the second-in-command of the People’s Liberation Army. He was born in Beijing, joined the army in 1968, and fought in the conflicts with Vietnam in 1979 and 1984.
Along with Zhang Yuxia, investigations are also underway against Liu Zhenli, Chief of Staff of the Joint Staff of the Central Military Commission.
The anti-corruption campaign in the Chinese army has been ongoing since 2012 and has intensified significantly since 2023. During this period, high-ranking military personnel, including representatives of the Rocket Forces and former ministers of defense of the country, have been subject to inspections.
It was previously reported that Chinese President Xi Jinping has initiated an investigation into two of China’s most influential generals , Zhang Yuxia and Liu Zhengli, who are suspected of serious disciplinary and legal violations.
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