Biden: "3 Unidentified Flying Objects Likely Not Chinese Reconnaissance"

[Asia Economy New York=Special Correspondent Joselgina] U.S. President Joe Biden stated on the 16th (local time) that the three unidentified flying objects recently discovered over North American airspace do not appear to be Chinese government reconnaissance devices. He also confirmed the policy of shooting down any objects that pose a threat to the safety and security of the American people. Prior to this, he conveyed plans to engage in dialogue with Chinese President Xi Jinping regarding the Chinese reconnaissance balloon that was shot down.

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

President Biden expressed his stance on the Chinese reconnaissance balloon and the three unidentified flying objects shot down over North American airspace during a briefing at the White House that day. First, he personally explained the background of why the Chinese reconnaissance balloon discovered on the 28th of last month was only shot down a week later, on the 4th. This was to justify the administration’s response amid criticism from political circles that the Biden administration’s reaction was too slow. He emphasized, "By shooting down the (Chinese reconnaissance balloon), we sent a clear message that we will not tolerate violations of our sovereignty and will act to defend our country."

President Biden also confirmed his intention to continue communication with China, stating, "We will responsibly manage (our competition with China) to prevent it from escalating into conflict." He said, "I expect to have a conversation with President Xi Jinping," adding, "I hope to resolve this matter definitively, but I will not apologize for shooting down the balloon." The recovery operation for the Chinese reconnaissance balloon is still underway, and it is reported to be "the size of several school buses." President Biden added that "sovereignty violations will not be tolerated," and mentioned sanctions imposed on six companies supporting the Chinese People's Liberation Army.

That day, President Biden also explained about the unidentified flying objects discovered and shot down over Alaska, Canada, and Lake Huron for three consecutive days from the 10th to the 12th. Local media reported that Biden’s remarks were the most detailed explanation about these objects since the 10th. Until now, the Biden administration had maintained a position of not disclosing specific information until the debris recovery and analysis were completed.

Regarding these flying objects, President Biden drew a clear line, saying, "At this point, there is nothing to suggest that they are related to China’s spy balloon program or reconnaissance balloons from other countries." He said, "The current assessment by intelligence agencies is that the three objects are most likely balloons related to private companies, recreational use, research institutions, or other scientific research including meteorological studies."

However, he did not forget to issue a warning. He emphasized, "Make no mistake," and said, "If there is an object that threatens the safety and security of the American people, I will shoot it down."

He also announced plans to establish rules on how to handle unidentified flying objects in the future. President Biden said, "There is no evidence that the number of flying objects has suddenly increased," but he instructed the creation of stricter rules and said he would share them with Congress once completed. The details will be classified to prevent bypassing U.S. defense efforts. The related task force includes staff from the Department of Defense, Federal Aviation Administration, and Department of Homeland Security. The Biden administration also plans to improve detection capabilities for flying objects.