27 articles
Unusual rumors of executions and a provocative game advertisement hint at a brewing information war within China. State media's own subtly critical reports further suggest deep political undercurrents and potential dissent.
President Xi Jinping's extensive purge of top military commanders has triggered debates about his paranoia and the PLA's readiness. Analysts question if these dismissals signal a consolidation of power or reveal deep-seated corruption and incompetence within China's armed forces, with significant implications for regional stability, particularly concerning Taiwan.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the Ukraine war lacks a military solution and will ultimately be settled through negotiation, highlighting America's crucial role in facilitating talks. Meanwhile, Hungary's PM Viktor Orbán accused Kyiv of election interference and disrupting energy supplies, while China's Xi Jinping called for inclusive peace negotiations.
Beijing is facing unprecedented tension as high-ranking military officials are reportedly arrested ahead of the CCP's crucial 'Two Sessions'. The lack of formal endorsements and procedural steps surrounding these purges raises questions about President Xi Jinping's control over the People's Liberation Army.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz concluded a significant visit to China, aiming to reset bilateral ties amidst global tensions. The trip focused on trade imbalances, China's support for Russia, and the burgeoning EV market, with mixed signals on potential concessions.
China's top leadership is embroiled in a fierce power struggle as three factions vie for control ahead of crucial March legislative meetings. The crisis, fueled by the disappearance of top generals, could escalate to a forceful confrontation. Key developments to watch include the upcoming Politburo meeting and the loyalty of military units.
Four weeks after the alleged purge of two top Chinese generals, uncertainty grips Beijing as official silence fuels rampant speculation about their whereabouts and fate. The lack of transparency, particularly concerning General Zhang Youxia, has ignited fears and demands for answers from the elite "red families," potentially destabilizing the Communist Party's power structure.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is in Beijing for crucial talks with President Xi Jinping, aiming to balance economic interdependence with geopolitical concerns. Germany seeks to address trade imbalances and fair competition while China eyes market access and strengthening its role in global trade.
A recent Supreme Court ruling has curtailed Donald Trump's ability to use emergency tariffs, impacting his upcoming meeting with China's Xi Jinping. Meanwhile, geopolitical tensions remain high, with discussions on Iran and the Russia-Ukraine conflict ongoing, while shifting voter sentiment poses challenges for Trump.
Political scientist Francis Fukuyama analyzes China's political system, drawing parallels between the contemporary Communist Party and ancient dynastic rule, highlighting the persistent challenge of top-down control and the 'bad emperor problem.' He discusses his peculiar meeting with former top official Wang Qishan and expresses concern over Xi Jinping's authoritarian turn, while also acknowledging the grave dangers facing American liberal democracy under figures like Donald Trump.
