After sweeping personnel purges at the top of China’s military leadership, President Xi Jinping appears to be shifting his focus away from a direct assault on Taiwan. Instead, he is betting on a strategy designed to weaken the island gradually — a campaign aimed at achieving results «without a single shot», The Wall Street Journal reports.

Over the past three years, Xi has removed from command or had arrested five of the six senior military officials he personally appointed. Among them is General Zhang Youxia, described as a close ally and childhood friend of the Chinese leader.

According to the article, these moves have significantly reduced the likelihood of an outright invasion of Taiwan. Beijing is now expected to rely more heavily on pressure and intimidation, steering clear of an open military confrontation.

This evolving approach would include frequent military drills, simulated naval and air blockades, economic and cyberattacks, as well as the use of legislation to target Taiwanese officials and activists.

The strategy, as outlined in the report, is built around a broad coercive campaign that combines displays of military force with economic and cyber pressure.

At the same time, Chinese officials reportedly believe the United States is not prepared for a large-scale military operation in the Taiwan Strait. Even major U.S. arms shipments to Taipei are seen more as support for the American defense industry than as a firm security guarantee. The White House, for its part, continues to emphasize maintaining the status quo and pursuing deterrence measures toward China.

The Wall Street Journal also notes that following the leadership purges, control over Taiwan strategy has effectively become concentrated entirely in Xi’s hands. He has tightened his grip over the People’s Liberation Army, placing the future course of action toward Taiwan under his direct authority.