China derides India’s military as no threat to Beijing and ‘unlikely to catch up’
IndependentAPR 2023
Though it's not uncommon for officials to be removed for corruption, particularly from within the capital-intensive Rocket Force, Pres. Xi's latest dismissals point less to a crackdown on corruption and more to a series of miscalculated appointments. Xi spent his first seven years in control consolidating power, and it looks like he is still prioritizing personal authority over displaying military strength toward the US. The CCP will continue to be led by Xi for the foreseeable future, but it won't be declaring war any time soon.
Minister Li's decorated military career is, unfortunately, the reason for his dismissal. Having risen the ranks from director of China's main satellite launch sites in Xichang to head of the Equipment Development Department of the Central Military Commission before becoming Defense Minister, he was eventually placed under sanctions by then US Pres. Donald Trump due to his involvement in the development program. This caused trouble for the CCP, which is why it was necessary to relieve him of his duties.