Articles by Yu Zeyuan

China’s nuclear submarines and bombers could shift Asia’s balance

China’s military capabilities are back in the spotlight, as the US reports on the PLA Navy’s growing submarine fleet, and observers take notice of signals of the launch of new submarine types and strategic bombers. Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Yu Zeyuan takes a look at the recent developments that have caught the world’s attention.

Yu Zeyuan

Why China stays measured on US-Israel strikes against Iran

The US and Israel have launched a military strike on Iran that has killed its Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, to mixed reactions globally. Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Yu Zeyuan looks at the effects of the offensive, not least on China.

Yu Zeyuan

Supreme Court ruling weakens Trump ahead of China visit

The US Supreme Court has struck down Trump’s tariffs, limiting his leverage and signalling rising domestic opposition. Ahead of his visit to China, his ability to secure favourable trade and political concessions is under pressure, says Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Yu Zeyuan.

Yu Zeyuan

Last man standing: Xi’s purge of the Central Military Commission

Only Chairman Xi Jinping and the lowest-ranking member, Zhang Shengmin, remain on the Central Military Commission. Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Yu Zeyuan analyses the purge of Zhang Youxia and other top PLA leaders, underscoring the CCP’s uncompromising stance on corruption and disloyalty.

Yu Zeyuan

What Maduro’s arrest means for China’s influence in Latin America

China’s substantial engagement in Latin America has garnered officials’ strong condemnation of the US’s capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Yu Zeyuan takes a look at Chinese reactions to the US’s military action in Venezuela.

Yu Zeyuan

Why China isn’t rushing to buy Nvidia’s H200 AI chip

The US is offering China Nvidia’s second-fastest AI chip, the H200, but Beijing is holding back. Behind the hesitation lies a high-stakes struggle over technology, control, and the future of domestic chips, says Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Yu Zeyuan.

Yu Zeyuan

China’s Fujian hits the water — next carrier already in the works

The Fujian launches the J‑35 stealth fighter via electromagnetic catapult, while satellite photos reveal China’s nuclear Type 004 carrier is already being built at Dalian. Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Yu Zeyuan takes a look at how China is transforming the military strategic landscape of the western Pacific.

Yu Zeyuan

China’s thorium breakthrough could power ships for ten years on a single charge

China’s recent breakthrough in converting thorium to uranium could potentially free it from reliance on imported uranium. Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Yu Zeyuan takes a look at the advantages of thorium as a nuclear fuel and how it could change China’s position in the global energy landscape.

Yu Zeyuan

Mutual suspense: The Xi–Trump bargain that no one fully trusts

The China-US trade talks in Kuala Lumpur ended on a positive note, paving the way for a meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump. Will that meeting result in a consensus? Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Yu Zeyuan looks at the possibilities.

Yu Zeyuan

Vietnam’s quiet rise: The new diplomatic bridge to North Korea

Maintaining close ties with China and Russia has always been the cornerstone of North Korea’s diplomacy. However, relying solely on these two powers is not enough to lift the country out of international isolation. Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Yu Zeyuan takes a look at the role ASEAN member states Vietnam and Laos can play.

Yu Zeyuan

Japan’s potential first female PM: A new Trump on the rise?

Sanae Takaichi, the newly elected Liberal Democratic Party leader, could be Japan’s first female prime minister. Known for her hawkish stance and strong ties to former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Takaichi could have a more confrontational approach, particularly on issues concerning Taiwan, economic security and historical interpretations. Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Yu Zeyuan takes a look at the matter.

Yu Zeyuan

From parade to power: Is China rewriting the rules of naval warfare?

Not long since the 3 September military parade, China stuns the world again during the Changchun Airshow. Lianhe Zaobao correspondent Yu Zeyuan takes a look at the highlights and what it means for China’s military might.

Yu Zeyuan