Zhang Youxia, Xi Jinping’s Ally in the Chinese Military

Russian President Vladimir Putin (R) meets with China's Central Military Commission Vice Chairman Zhang Youxia at the Novo-Ogaryovo state residence outside Moscow on Dec. 7, 2017. Sergei Karpukhin /AFP/Getty Images

News Analysis

Chinese leader Xi Jinping’s success in securing his third term was not as easy as it appeared. One of Xi’s allies, Zhang Youxia, played a critical role in helping him control the military and stabilize the situation.