China maintains silence in diplomatic level; concerning situation may arise, states US

WASHINGTON: US says China is maintaining silence in diplomatic level after they shot down surveillance balloon that violated airspace. After the Chinese balloon was shot down, US had received a warning that there would be severe consequences. Following this, the new revelation clarifies that the communication between the two countries has become limited.

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken had decided to visit China before this incident. Meanwhile, a balloon, which China claims is being used for scientific purposes, has landed within US borders. China explained that it was not sent for spy work and that the balloon entered US due to a change in direction, but the surveillance balloon, which had moved through a populated area, was disabled by a missile fired by an F-22 Raptor fighter jet.

After this, Antony Blinken's visit to China was cancelled. US received a strong warning from China regarding the observation balloon issue. After this incident, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin tried to contact the Chinese Defense Department but was denied permission. It is believed that with the breakdown of the relationship at the diplomatic level, even minor provocations could lead to bigger issues.