The Death Of China Alleges That US-Owned Basin Has Entered Its Airspace Without Permission Since The Beginning Of 2022

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin. (Twitter/@MFA_China)

JAKARTA - China has accused high-altitude balloons of the United States of flying over its airspace without a permit more than 10 times since early 2022 on Monday.

The latest allegations widened diplomatic disputes after the United States military shot down what it said was a Chinese spy balloon.

"Since last year, US high-altitude balloons have made more than 10 illegal flights to Chinese airspace without the approval of the relevant Chinese department," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said at a regular briefing in Beijing.

However, Wang did not specifically describe whether the balloon had military or espionage purposes, providing no further details.

Asked how China responded to such an attack on its airspace, Wang said his response was "mandable and professional".

In this regard, the United States Department of Defense did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

China's affirmation comes after the United States shot down what it said was a Chinese spy balloon off the coast of South Carolina on February 4, after floating across the United States for days.

Responding to Chinese balloons, the United States postponed the visit of Foreign Minister Antony Blinken to Beijing.

China says the balloon is a civilian research plane, accusing the United States of overreacting.

"The first thing the US side has to do is look at himself, change his way, not tarnish and incite confrontation," Wang criticized.

In recent days, the United States military has shot down three other flying objects over North America.

However, Wang said he had no information about the three latest objects shot down by the United States.