Tensions between the US and China over the Chinese spy balloon over Montana could continue to rise. According to the Pentagon, a second balloon was discovered flying over Latin America. The Ministry of Defense did not name an exact location. “We are in the process of finding out if this is another Chinese surveillance balloon,” said US Defense Department spokesman Pat Ryde on Friday evening (local time).
Because of the balloon in US airspace, relations between the US and China are even more tense than they already are. Foreign Minister Antony Blinken had therefore canceled his trip to China, which was planned for Sunday, at short notice. Blinken called the incident “unacceptable” and “irresponsible”.
Meanwhile, reassurances and rejections are coming from China. According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, foreign politician Wang Yi said that “unfounded speculation and propaganda” are not accepted. The balloon was a weather balloon. He was invaded by “force majeure” in the US airspace. “Due to the westerly wind drift and limited control options, the airship has deviated far from the planned route,” said a spokesman for the ministry. “Some US politicians and media have taken advantage of the situation to attack and discredit China.”
Because of the crisis in the Pacific, the dispute over the island republic of Taiwan and the war in Ukraine, relations between China and the USA are more tense than they have been for a long time. During his trip to Beijing, Foreign Minister Blinken also wanted to meet Chinese President XI Jinping. His cancellation at the last minute also caused criticism. However, Blinken emphasized that they are still in contact with China. The diplomatic channels are still open. However, China’s actions undermined the purpose of the trip to put relations with China on a more solid footing.