Some Chinese Veterans Question Call to Return to Service If War Breaks Out in Taiwan Strait

As Beijing urges readiness for Taiwan conflict, China’s veterans cite broken promises, financial strain, and growing disillusionment.

Elderly People's Liberation Army (PLA) veterans walk at Shenyang Martyrs' Cemetery in Shenyang, northeast China's Liaoning Province, on March 29, 2017. STR/AFP/Getty Images

For years, Beijing has promoted a simple message to China’s military veterans: When called upon by the country, they are expected to obey.

Under the People’s Liberation Army’s (PLA) revised military regulations, which took effect in April 2025, the formal retirement oath concludes with the line: “If there is war, we will return when summoned.”