U.S. To Discuss Chinese Spy Balloon Scandal With Allies, As Biden Defends Decision To Shoot It Down

The White House on Monday defended the decision to shoot down a suspected Chinese spy balloon over the weekend. Speaking to reporters, President Bidfen maintained that he wanted to bring it down “as soon as it was appropriate," TURAN's Washington correspondent reports from the White House.

On Saturday, the U.S. military shot down the balloon after it drifted off the East Coast.

Asked if the incident changed the U.S.-China relationship, Biden replied: “No.”

“We made it clear to China what we’re going to do, they understand our position, we’re not going to back off" he added.  “We did the right thing, and there’s not a question of weakening or strengthening, it’s just the reality.”

Asked by TURAN' whether Washington considered more "punitive steps" against China for violating U.S. airspace, State Department's spokesperson Ned Price said the followings:

"In the first instance we’re discussing this with our allies and partners. We’re comparing notes about what has happened to us in recent days, what has happened to us within recent years as well. We want to learn as much as we can about not only what’s happened recently but in recent years, and we’re going to take steps to protect our interests as appropriate."

Alex Raufoglu

Washington D.C.