Xi Jinping's Weakening Grip on PLA: The Battle to Free General Zhang Youxia

Open Letter Demands Release

• 💡 An open letter, purportedly from General Zhang Youxia's son, accuses Xi Jinping of illegally arresting his father and demands his release.
• 📌 The letter refutes charges of political wavering, leaking state secrets, or corruption, stating Zhang's income was legitimate and he upheld the CMC chairman's authority.
• ⚠️ It highlights the illegal detention by the Ministry of Public Security, arguing that a general of Zhang's rank requires Politburo discussion and military discipline authority investigation, not a police arrest.
• 💬 The letter warns of serious consequences if the situation is mishandled, implying strong backing for Zhang within the military and potential instability.

Behind-the-Scenes Power Struggle

• 🧠 The letter's tone suggests a negotiation between powerful factions with leverage, rather than a subordinate pleading for mercy.
• 🔑 It is believed to represent the stance of the Zhang and Liu families and a significant portion of the military establishment, signaling that Xi Jinping's control over the military is no longer absolute.
• 🚨 Leaks indicate Zhang Youxia's family has been denied information and visits, and there are rumors of authorities attempting to force a confession video, which Zhang has flatly refused.

Divided Military and Leadership

• ⚔️ The Central Military Commission headquarters is effectively leaderless, with General Zhang Shiming reportedly held in Beijing as a hostage.
• 🚫 Senior generals were notably absent from Xi Jinping's Luna New Year greetings, with only low-ranking officers present, indicating a lack of serious engagement from theater commands.
• 🛡️ The Beijing garrison controls CMC HQ, but the Western Hills Command Center, protecting party elders, is blocked by the 82nd Army, creating a military standoff.

Political Maneuvering and Ultimatum

• 🤝 The conservative camp, led by Zeng Qinghong, is negotiating with Xi Jinping, demanding the generals be produced alive or dead.
• 🚀 Liu Yuan is reportedly leading the 82nd Army outside Beijing, preparing for a potential military confrontation, while Deng Pufang's family rallies reformist forces within Beijing.
• ⏳ The anti-Xi camp has reportedly given Xi Jinping a three-month ultimatum to produce the generals, with concerns about their survival during this period of isolated detention.