Liu Jianchao, a senior Chinese diplomat widely regarded as a potential future foreign minister, was detained by Chinese authorities for questioning in late July after returning to Beijing from an overseas trip. Liu, who has played a key role in managing the Chinese Communist Party's foreign relations and has been involved in diplomatic exchanges with the United States and Japan, was taken into custody amid unclear circumstances. His detention raises questions about succession within China's foreign policy leadership, especially following the surprise ouster of former Foreign Minister Qin Gang two years prior. Liu's removal signals increased scrutiny within China's diplomatic ranks and may reflect ongoing internal political dynamics, including Xi Jinping's anti-corruption campaign. The Wall Street Journal and multiple international media outlets have reported on Liu's detention, but the specific reasons remain undisclosed.