China’s Xi goes full Stalin with purge

Politico: In China, a Stalin-like purge reminiscent of political instability is occurring under Chairman Xi Jinping’s rule. Key foreign policy and defense officials, including the foreign and defense ministers and generals in charge of the nuclear weapons program, have mysteriously disappeared or died in custody. These purges, previously targeting opponents, now involve Xi’s inner circle and loyalists, raising questions about the regime’s stability.

The situation has major implications globally, impacting the economy and regional peace. The purge has extended to various sectors, affecting senior officials in the financial sector. The recent death of former Prime Minister Li Keqiang under suspicious circumstances has intensified concerns.

This atmosphere of paranoia and repression in Beijing raises fears of unpredictable actions by Xi, potentially leading to conflicts or even an invasion of Taiwan. The purges also reflect internal challenges within China, such as an aging population, economic slowdown, and unemployment. Chinese officials are compelled to align with “Xi Jinping Thought,” and there’s a clampdown on negative economic commentary and perceived Western influences.

The beneficiaries of these purges are provincial bureaucrats loyal to Xi, now dominating China’s political landscape. The purge’s extent and nature suggest a deepening paranoia and instability within China’s leadership, posing risks to both domestic and international relations.

The entire article can be read at the link https://www.politico.eu/article/chinas-paranoid-purge-xi-jinping-li-keqiang-qin-gang-li-shangfu/