Month: October 2025

As the CCP’s Fourth Plenum looms, Beijing is on edge. Within 24 hours, China’s political storm could erupt into open confrontation. Nine of Xi Jinping’s top generals—his most loyal allies—have already been purged in what’s being called the biggest military shake-up since Mao, with 28 more reportedly on the way. Behind the scenes, Central Military Commission Vice Chairman Zhang Youxia is said to be leading a counter-move to block Xi’s comeback and prevent a civil war inside the regime. As the Party’s propaganda system and the military openly contradict each other, China’s leadership crisis is approaching a dangerous tipping point.

China’s Communist Party is holding a major policy meeting, as trade tensions with the United States rise. Washington is threatening to further increase tariffs on Chinese imports. Beijing has hit back with new fees on US ships arriving at Chinese ports, and tighter export controls.

China is challenging America’s biggest source of power the US dollar. Countries are beginning to trade in yuan, moving away from the dollar-based system the world has used for decades. This shift is happening faster than most people realize.**

On October 17, 2025, China’s Ministry of National Defense released a brief announcement of just over 500 characters, yet it shocked the entire political and military system. In that statement, nine senior generals were expelled from the Communist Party, stripped of their military status, and handed over to the Military Procuratorate. The most notable names were He Weidong — Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission — and Miao Hua — Member of the Commission and Director of the General Political Department. Given their rank and position, this was nothing short of a collective beheading of generals in peacetime.

The Chinese Communist Party said Friday that it has purged several top military officials from its party ranks and core government units, including general He Weidong, formerly China’s second-highest ranking general. The removals come ahead of a major CCP meeting on Oct. 20. He was reported to have close ties with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) recently imposed unprecedented export controls on rare earths, escalating the U.S.–China trade war.How is it that the Chinese regime managed to gain control of many of the most essential supply chains, from critical minerals to pharmaceuticals? How should the Trump administration approach this threat to national security?In this episode, we sit down with Lee Smith, author of “The Plot Against the President,” and the soon-to-be-released book, “The China Matrix: The Epic Story of How Donald Trump Shattered a Deadly Pact.”“It was simply American corruption that has allowed all of this to happen. And that’s certainly the point that [U.S. President] Donald Trump makes in the book,” Smith says.What is Trump’s strategy when it comes to China? How does he actually view Chinese leader Xi Jinping?Views expressed in this video are opinions of the host and the guest, and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. CHAPTER TITLES0:00:00 The CCP’s Rare Earth Controls and U.S. Dependency 0:01:02 Introducing Lee Smith and “The China Matrix” 0:02:03 U.S.-China Technology Transfers and National Security 0:02:40 The Velvet Glove: U.S. Elites and the CCP’s Rise 0:04:36 Chinese Dominance in Strategic Industries (Pharma, Steel) 0:06:13 American Corruption and Bi-Partisan Complicity 0:08:02 Industrial Policy and State-Subsidized Dumping 0:08:27 Unrestricted Warfare and Economic Targeting 0:10:00 Trump’s Trade Deal Negotiations with China 0:11:58 Xi Jinping’s Power Dynamics and Internal CCP Forces 0:14:40 CCP’s Supremacy Over Individuals—U.S. Demands for Change 0:17:36 Deep U.S.–China Economic Integration and Trade Deficit 0:20:00 The Persistence of the China Lobby 0:22:32 The Role of Henry Kissinger and Elite Interests 0:25:00 State and Local Level Influence; “Chinagate” 0:28:57 Trump’s Policies to Reshore American Industry 0:30:17 Student Visas and National Security Risks 0:34:04 Communicating the Trade War to the American Public 0:35:15 Human Rights, Slave Labor, and Moral Implications 0:38:22 China’s Economic Fragility and Export Focus 0:39:02 U.S. Corporate Involvement and “Too Big to Fail” 0:41:13 Trump’s Legacy and the Call for Economic Realignment 0:45:00 Final Thoughts: Good vs. Evil, the Epic U.S.–China Story

The Chinese Communist Party has ousted nine top generals—including its No. 2 general—ahead of a key meeting. What does this leadership shakeup say about Party leader Xi Jinping’s grip on power, and could it affect Beijing’s ability to take Taiwan?President Donald Trump says his 100 percent tariffs on China would not be sustainable, adding that Beijing’s rare earth export curbs forced him to implement them.Major American tech firms are racing to move production out of China as trade tensions between the two nations escalate. We bring you the details.The United States and Australia are teaming up to operate a facility that produces missiles on Australian soil, strengthening regional defense in the Indo-Pacific.In a second serious warning in one week against China, the UK’s intelligence agency has labeled China a “hostile state.”00:00 Intro00:59 Top Generals Ousted Ahead of Key Leadership Meeting02:41 Unpacking Military Shakeup Ahead of Key CCP Meeting07:20 Trump: 100% Tariffs on China Not Sustainable08:20 New Yorkers Name Preferred Candidates, Reject Socialism10:22 Google, Microsoft, Amazon Move Production Out of China11:21 US-Australia Missile Factory to Boost Defense12:26 Trump Meets Zelenskyy Regarding Ukraine War15:15 MI5 Chief: China Is a Daily Threat to UK Security16:10 Sydney Court Delays Yang Lanlan Case to Mid-Nov.20:13 Unclear if India Has Stopped Buying Russian Oil

Why did Xi Jinping suddenly launch a rare-earth blitz against the world? In this episode, we uncover Xi’s true motives — to reassert control, silence rumors of failing health, and prove he’s still in charge before the Fourth Plenum and APEC summit. But the move backfired. Trump’s sharp response exposed divisions inside Beijing and deepened Xi’s “bad moment,” both politically and psychologically. As APEC approaches, uncertainty looms: will Xi show up to face Trump, or hide behind the Fourth Plenum’s chaos? This rare-earth offensive may have set the stage for Xi’s biggest political reckoning yet.

🕒 Timestamps:00:00 🚀 Introduction – The Global Shift03:42 🎓 Education as a Weapon08:25 ⚙️ Technology and Transformation13:10 💡 The Silent Strategy18:45 🔄 Adapting to Change22:30 🧠 Competing with Wisdom25:01 🎯 Final Lesson – The Future Belongs to the Prepared

The Philippines has actively expanded its network of security partnerships, including an upcoming Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with Australia. The two countries also announced that Australia would build eight defense infrastructure projects at five sites across the Philippines. Manila previously signed a mutual defense treaty with the US in 1951, but it has recently sought to boost its military links with other like-minded countries in the face of illegal, coercive, aggressive and deceptive (ICAD) actions from Beijing. What does this EDCA involve? Why is Australia so keen to expand its presence in the South China Sea? And could this help deter a conflict in the Taiwan Strait? In this episode, our guests discuss the Philippine’s deterrence network, Australia’s expanding military role, and what it means for Indo-Pacific peace and stability. *Recorded on October 17, 2025 at 11am Taiwan Standard Time Host: Yin Khvat Our guests: Renato Cruz de Castro National Chengchi University MOFA Taiwan FellowWen-Ti Sung Atlantic Council Global China Hub Non-Resident Fellow Chapters:00:00:00 – Australia, Philippines’s Security Ties00:01:43 – What Will ECDA Entail?00:09:52 – What Motivates Australia To Counter China?00:16:48 – Philippines Expands Deterrence Network00:22:54 – Could Beijing, Manila Reach Consensus?

00:00 Introduction + Taiwan Meetup00:38 Trade War Update03:56 China’s Industrial Master Plan & EV Industry

#philippines #china #asia What began with water cannons and ramming has now turned into full maritime standoffs. Chinese warships are aggressively confronting Philippine patrol vessels in the West Philippine Sea. In this video, we examine how the Philippines is escalating its naval capabilities to defend its sovereignty. #WestPhilippineSea #PhilippineCoastGuard #SouthChinaSea #ChinaPhilippinesTension #MaritimeSecurity #UNCLOS

China controls the world’s largest reserves of rare earth elements, and now it’s tightening its grip. Andrew Chang unpacks how China’s export restrictions are giving it powerful leverage over the United States, and why U.S. President Donald Trump is determined to catch up.Images provided by Getty Images, The Canadian Press and Reuters.00:00 – Intro1:56 – A race worth running4:40 – All-in on rare earths9:13 – Rare earths, weaponized

China announced it will hold new trade talks with the United States “as soon as possible” amid rising tensions. The discussions follow U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of 100% tariffs on Chinese exports and strict controls on critical software. Vice Premier He Lifeng and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent held a video call described as “candid, in-depth, and constructive.” Trump confirmed he would meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea in two weeks. Both leaders aim to stabilize trade relations despite the escalating economic pressures, with Trump emphasizing his personal rapport with Xi as a negotiating advantage.#ChinaUSTrade #Trump #XiJinping #TariffWar #TradeNegotiations #100PercentTariffs #SoftwareBan #EconomicPressure #GlobalMarkets #HeLifeng #ScottBessent #SouthKoreaSummit

As China approaches the Fourth Plenum and edges closer to conflict, a deeper war is raging behind the scenes — not over territory, but over power. Xi Jinping needs war to save his rule. General Zhang Youxia uses war to expand his control. Each man is playing the other — and the real battlefield may not be Taiwan, but Beijing itself. From the rare-earth shock to the military purges and nationwide war mobilization, this episode uncovers the silent struggle shaping China’s future. Xi’s call for war has become a double-edged sword — empowering Zhang while eroding Xi’s own grip on power.So who’s really using the war to win? The answer could determine not just Xi’s fate, but the fate of the world.

The Chinese Communist Party’s use of rare earth export restrictions as a trade war tactic highlights their strategic leverage, driven by the metals’ critical role in industries like chip manufacturing. Lacking standardized contracts due to their complex composition, rare earths are supplied through point-to-point channels, with low industrial volumes but rigid demand. Despite price hikes, downstream industries can absorb costs, prioritizing supply stability. The CCP’s repeated use of this card reveals a depleting toolbox, accelerating Western efforts to rebuild supply chains. Political shifts, reduced environmental barriers, and global supply chain concerns drive investments in regions like the U.S., Australia, and Saudi Arabia. Historical parallels, like Europe’s energy decoupling from Russia, suggest a two-to-four-year timeline for restructuring. By 2027, the CCP’s rare earth dominance may wane, decentralizing pricing power and stabilizing global supply, as the West capitalizes on this industrial catalyst.

As China approaches the Fourth Plenum and edges closer to conflict, a deeper war is raging behind the scenes — not over territory, but over power. Xi Jinping needs war to save his rule. General Zhang Youxia uses war to expand his control. Each man is playing the other — and the real battlefield may not be Taiwan, but Beijing itself. From the rare-earth shock to the military purges and nationwide war mobilization, this episode uncovers the silent struggle shaping China’s future. Xi’s call for war has become a double-edged sword — empowering Zhang while eroding Xi’s own grip on power.

On October 15, the 138th China Import and Export Fair, also known as the Canton Fair, officially opened. Promoted by officials as the “largest and most attended fair ever,” it is often seen as a key indicator of China’s foreign trade. However, the actual scene at the event tells a different story.

Beijing places “bounties” on Taiwan military Navy officer charged for leaking missile plans to China Satellite images show amphibious ships near Shanghai China expands its mock Taipei at training base China has escalated its espionage and psychological warfare efforts against Taiwan, including placing ‘bounties’ on members of Taiwan’s military. It comes as a Taiwan naval officer is being charged with leaking sensitive documents related to the Hsiung Feng II antiship missile. Meanwhile, satellite images appear to show amphibious Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) attack vessels assembling Shanghai, and a mock version of Taipei at a training base in Inner Mongolia has been expanded. Are these preparations for an invasion, an intimidation tactic, or something in-between? In this episode, our guests discuss China’s latest gray-zone tactics and what they mean for Taiwan.

The United States has condemned China for ramming and water-cannoning a Philippine vessel on October 12 near Thitu Island in the South China Sea. Washington called Beijing’s actions “dangerous” and a threat to regional stability.The US reaffirmed its support for the Philippines in confronting Chinese aggression, noting that China’s maritime claims and coercive actions undermine peace and prior agreements.Article IV of the 1951 US-Philippines Mutual Defence Treaty covers attacks on Philippine forces or vessels in the South China Sea. The incident comes amid mutual accusations between China and the Philippines.The US has urged China to respect international law and avoid actions that escalate tensions in the region.#uschinaconflict #southchinasea #philippines #wionnews

The Philippine Coast Guard released footage of a Chinese J-16 fighter harassing its patrol plane near Second Thomas and Scarborough Shoals amid rising South China Sea tensions.00:00 – INTRODUCTION01:52 – CLASHES OVER DISPUTED SHOAL03:57 – INDIA, UK DRILL DEFENDS HMS PRINCE OF WALES#southchinasea #china #philippines

Allianz Chief Economic Advisor Mohamed El-Erian joins ‘Making Money with Charles Payne’ to break down market volatility, fading global confidence in the U.S. dollar, and intensifying trade tensions with China.

A Taiwanese company has showcased its drones and unmanned boats at the annual US Army expo in Washington — just as Taiwan launches new policies to boost its drone industry.

President Donald Trump says the United States is in a trade war with China. Tensions are growing between the world’s two largest economies after Beijing unleashed export restrictions on critical minerals.Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warns what could come ahead if China doesn’t want to be a reliable partner. The administration is weighing more control in strategic sectors to counter Beijing.In Latin America, Trump promises strong support for Argentina’s economy and makes it clear there’s a red line: no Chinese military on Argentine soil.Despite U.S. export bans on Nvidia’s cutting-edge GPUs entering China, reports online reveal they are still being sold there. We take a closer look at what’s going on.Why is the Chinese communist regime described as an existential threat to freedom? A national security analyst breaks down what makes the China threat unique.00:00 Intro01:27 Trump: We’re in a Trade War With China02:29 Bessent: China Risks Forcing Global Decoupling03:09 Bessent: U.S. to Take More Control in Critical Sectors04:10 China Reacts to Pakistan’s Rare Earth Shipment to U.S.05:20 FCC Moves to Bar Hong Kong Telecom Carrier in U.S.06:13 FBI Going After Espionage Activities Related to China06:55 Trump: India Will Stop Buying Russian Oil07:29 UK Politicians Warned of Spies From China, Russia, Iran08:17 Trump: No Chinese Military Allowed in Argentina09:37 High-End Nvidia Chips in China Despite U.S. Export Ban11:08 CCP Plans Complete Domination by 2049: Fleming18:55 British PM Starmer to Release Evidence in China Spy Case20:41 ASML: China’s Demand for Chipmaking Equipment Weakens

Was China’s Trade War a mistake? The Trump Administration says Xi Jinping may have been sidelined by hardliners in the Chinese Communist Party. But is that what’s really going on?

China is absolutely out of control right now!

U.S. Military vs China: Missiles, Railguns & Island Defense Strategy#usmilitary #chinavsus #southchinaseaChina is pushing harder in the South China Sea, but the U.S. and its allies are responding with powerful new strategies and weapons. From spy ship standoffs to the Typhon missile system deployed in Japan, America is building a defensive wall across the Pacific.This video breaks down:China’s aggression in the South China SeaThe Philippines confronting China’s spy shipsHow America’s missile factories are reshaping defense productionTyphon missile deployments turning Japanese islands into “unsinkable destroyers”China and Russia coordinating naval moves against JapanThe U.S. crossfire strategy across the First Island ChainDeterrence by uncertainty, America’s invisible advantageJapan’s railgun breakthrough and its impact on naval warfare

China’s number two general He Weidong and eight other high-ranking officials have been expelled from the ruling Communist Party on corruption charges. They are the most senior officers to be purged in an anti-graft push that began in 2023. General He was last seen in public in March and his absence fuelled speculation he was under investigation. The defence ministry said the nine men are suspected of financial crimes involving QUOTE “an extremely large amount of money”. Chapters:0:00 Chinese generals expelled from CCP0:32 Rorry Daniels, Asia Society Policy Institute

On August 7, 2025, China introduced the K visa, targeting young foreign talent with a bachelor’s degree or higher, effective October 1. Requiring no work experience or employer contract, it sparked massive social media backlash by late September, with netizens arguing it allows foreigners to compete for jobs amid high youth unemployment. Unlike R and Z visas for high-end and professional talent, the K visa aims to boost consumption, not employment, as domestic spending falters and investment drops sharply (9.3% in August). With a 63% macro leverage ratio and 54 million credit-restricted citizens, the government seeks foreign spending to offset economic deflation. However, the policy’s low threshold ignited public outrage, culminating in a crashed petition website and media rebuttals, highlighting tensions over job competition and the government’s apparent abandonment of domestic youth for foreign economic contributions.

In a rare moment in diplomacy, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent names a Chinese official who threatens global chaos if the U.S. imposes port fees on China. “I think his name is Lee Chenggang,” Bessent said. “And, you know, threatening, saying that China would unleash chaos on the global system if the U.S. went ahead with our docking fees for Chinese ships.”In a tit-for-tat trade war, President Donald Trump is warning he may block Chinese cooking oil imports after Beijing stopped buying U.S. soybeans.A new report reveals that more than 500 U.S. universities may be helping China’s military advance its technology. We take a closer look at what this means for U.S. national security.Millions of Chinese electronics are disappearing from U.S. online stores over national security concerns. We take a closer look at what’s next for the FCC.Japan’s confirmation of a new prime minister has been delayed until after Oct. 20. An expert offers insights into Sanae Takaichi’s potential premiership and her commonsense policies on defense.00:00 Intro00:52 Bessent Names CCP Official for Being Disrespectful01:42 Bessent: CCP Commerce Official Threatens Global Chaos04:53 World Financial Leaders Aim to Deter China’s Curbs07:47 U.S., China Clash Over Soybean, Cooking Oil Trade09:25 Top State Dept. Adviser Arrested Over Secret Documents10:19 Report: 500+ U.S. Colleges Work With China’s Military11:46 FCC Pulls Millions of Chinese Electronics From Stores12:48 Netherlands Takes Control of Chinese-Owned Chipmaker13:48 EU Seeks U.S. Alliance to Counter CCP Rare Earth Crackdown15:24 UK Sanctions Chinese, Indian Firms Over Russian Oil16:33 Takaichi’s Bid to Redefine Japanese Leadership

Gatestone Institute senior fellow Gordon Chang joins ‘Mornings with Maria’ to discuss U.S.–China trade tensions, Trump’s tariff threat, Xi Jinping’s waning power and rising fears Beijing could move on Taiwan within the next few years.