Detection and Monitoring
The US government detected the balloon and is currently tracking it. According to the Pentagon, the balloon is at a high altitude and doesn't threaten people on the ground.
Chinese Admission and Regret
The Chinese government confirmed that the balloon was from China and used for meteorological research. It also expressed regret over the balloon entering US airspace.
Pentagon's Doubts on Chinese Explanation
The Pentagon doubts the Chinese explanation, with a senior defense official telling Fox News that the balloon was launched from mainland China.
No Shoot Down Despite Calls
Despite calls from Republicans to shoot down the balloon, a senior US official warned against it due to the heavy equipment on board and the risk of collateral damage.
Blinken Trip Cancelled
Secretary of State Antony Blinken was scheduled to visit Beijing but canceled the trip due to the presence of the balloon in US airspace. An official stated that the conditions were not right for the visit.
