The Downfall of Zhang Youxia

The Downfall of Zhang Youxia

Author: The Diplomat January 30, 2026 Duration: 15:17

In this episode of The Diplomat’s Asia Geopolitics podcast, Ankit Panda and Katie Putz discuss the recent downfall of General Zhang Youxia, a significant figure in China's military leadership. They explore the implications of his removal, the allegations of corruption and espionage, and how this reflects broader trends in Chinese politics under Xi Jinping. 

For more on the intrigues of China’s military purges, check out Zi Yang’s recent article for The Diplomat, “The Purge of Zhang Youxia and Liu Zhenli: Why and What’s Next for China’s Military” and his October 2025 article, “What Does the Fall of He Weidong Mean for the PLA?


Each week, Asia Geopolitics takes the headlines from across the vast Asia-Pacific region and unpacks the deeper strategic forces at play. Hosts Ankit Panda and Catherine Putz, drawing on their expertise from The Diplomat, steer these conversations beyond the surface of breaking news. They examine how a military exercise, an election result, or a diplomatic statement ripples through the regional order, affecting alliances, economies, and security. Regular guests join them to provide ground-level insight and diverse perspectives, making complex topics accessible. This isn't just a recap of events; it's a thoughtful analysis of the power dynamics shaping the continent's future. For anyone curious about the real stories behind the news from China, India, Japan, the Koreas, Southeast Asia, and beyond, this podcast offers essential context. Tune in for a clear-eyed and nuanced look at the forces defining the world's most consequential region.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Asia Geopolitics
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