China's Xi to Urge Trump on Taiwan Arms Sales Amidst Internal Corruption Probe

Chinese President Xi Jinping is reportedly planning to press U.S. President Donald Trump to halt arms sales to Taiwan, citing a 1982 agreement. This diplomatic push comes as China grapples with internal challenges, including a high-profile corruption investigation that has led to the expulsion of a former top military commander, Zhang Youxia, from the Communist Party. Investigators allege Zhang accepted exceptionally large bribes, signaling a significant anti-corruption effort within the People's Liberation Army.

Meanwhile, in a separate development concerning regional stability, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has called for easing sanctions on North Korea, suggesting a freeze rather than complete elimination of its nuclear weapons program. These geopolitical maneuvers occur against the backdrop of the Asian Games, where a young Chinese swimmer, Yu Zidi, has already set a new women's 200m butterfly record, highlighting emerging talent in the region.