Part 9/12:
The political significance of these purges extends beyond personnel reshuffles. Admiral Dong’s appointment in December 2023, as the first Navy officer to hold the defense minister role, initially signaled an effort to strengthen China’s maritime capabilities—particularly in sensitive areas such as the South China Sea and Taiwan. His early engagement with U.S. defense officials suggested a thaw in relations. However, recent actions, like refusing to meet with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin at the latest defense summit, signal renewed tensions.