BEIJING: China’s defense ministry has launched an investigation into General Zhang Youxia, the country’s highest-ranking military officer after President Xi Jinping, citing serious violations of discipline and law.

Another senior officer, General Liu Zhenli, is also under probe.

Zhang, a vice chair of the Central Military Commission and a Politburo member, had been retained beyond retirement age, signaling strong trust from Xi.

The move follows the expulsion of nine generals in October and sharply reduces the commission’s leadership, underscoring Xi’s intensified anti-corruption drive within the armed forces.