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The Quiet Purge.

  • Published In: Foreign Policy, 2026, n. 259. P. 21 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Yuwen, Deng 3 of 3

Abstract

The article examines the recent purges within China's military and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), highlighting the removal of key leaders, including Central Military Commission (CMC) Vice Chairman He Weidong. Despite these significant changes, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) has shown no signs of rebellion or backlash, attributed to the institutional structure that enforces the principle that "the party commands the gun." This principle ensures that military loyalty is directed towards the CCP rather than the state, effectively preventing the emergence of independent military authority. The article argues that the combination of anti-corruption campaigns, ideological control, and a culture of fear has solidified Xi Jinping's power, making dissent within the military not only unlikely but structurally impossible. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Foreign Policy. 2026/01, Issue 259, p21
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:History
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:0015-7228
  • Accession Number:190318493
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