China considers Taiwan its own territory and has threatened to take control of the island by force if necessary. China also has increased military pressure and, last month, launched large-scale military drills around Taiwan for two days after the U.S. government announced a major arms sales to Taiwan.

A combat veteran, Zhang Youxia was once seen as the most trusted man in Xi Jinping’s military. Now he is the most public example of disloyalty to Mr. Xi.

From Zhang’s influence posing a threat to Xi Jinping, to inefficiencies in Taiwan-related planning, an entire range of theories has been offered for the removal. Here is what makes the event unprecedented,

Over 40 retired generals, admirals and other former senior military officers signed an amicus brief on Tuesday in support of Sen. Kelly.

More than 40 former military leaders are backing Sen. Mark Kelly’s (D-Ariz.) lawsuit against the Pentagon, saying they are “deeply concerned” Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s threats against the retired naval officer could chill the speech of other former service members.