China Pushed US to Stay 'Cool Headed' Over Suspected Surveillance Balloon
The Chinese government has pressed Washington to remain “cool-headed” as it investigates news that a suspected Chinese-operated spy balloon has been flying over sensitive U.S. airspace.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at a press briefing that authorities were still learning about the matter, adding that politicians and the public should withhold judgment “before we have a clear understanding of the facts.”
“We have noticed relevant reports and are learning about this matter. What I want to emphasize is that speculation and conjecture are not conducive to a proper settlement of the matter before the matter is clarified,” Mao said, via an NBC translation.
US defence officials said they were convinced the "high-altitude surveillance balloon" belonged to China. It was most recently seen above the western state of Montana. The military decided against shooting it down in case debris falls.
The object flew over Alaska's Aleutian Islands and through Canada before appearing over the city of Billings in Montana on Wednesday, US officials said.
Also, Canada said on Friday that it was monitoring "a potential second incident" involving a surveillance balloon, threats".
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