Chinese spy ballon over USA - weather research? #shorts

China has claimed ownership of a balloon that was spotted floating over Montana. The Chinese Foreign Ministry said the balloon was used for weather research, but had deviated from its intended course due to strong winds. The US Defense Department claims the balloon was a surveillance device and violated US airspace and international law. Secretary of State Antony Blinken was scheduled to visit Beijing but postponed his trip due to this incident. The US State Department stated that the act was a clear violation of US sovereignty and international law. The Pentagon stated the balloon was monitored for several days and was not shot down due to potential damage it could cause. It was believed to be large enough to cause significant damage and was flying over commercial airline routes, but the Pentagon concluded it did not pose a threat to civilian aviation or intelligence. President Biden was briefed on the situation, but has not issued a formal statement yet.