Disappearance of High-Ranking Military Officials in China Fuels Speculation About Corruption Probe

China's Defense Minister Li Shangfu has been fired without explanation after disappearing from public view two months ago. This follows the disappearance of another high-ranking military official and the dismissal of two senior ministers, raising concerns about President Xi Jinping's governance. Li's removal could pave the way for high-level military talks between China and the United States. Speculation has arisen about Li's fate, with suggestions of an investigation for corruption. Li's position in the military was largely ceremonial, with command power residing in the Central Military Commission.