[Aktungbby]

It is worth noting: prior to the current balloon situation, "there had been incursions over the continental US. At least 3 of those were during Trump's presidency, while one occurred during Biden's term. They were of short duration, which may have factored in their non-detection. The Pentagon said over the weekend that China has a fleet of surveillance balloons spotted previously over Latin America, Europe and Asia...so be it; I'd like to see Frank01 and his F-22 get 4 more balloons if only to display more competence than three administrations as to aerial security; and a check to Sino-disdain for international rules on 'force majeure'.(''an irresponsible act and clear violation of US sovereignty and international law'). The Chinese objection to our 'overraction' is less than strident as Xi emphasizes a wish to restore Secretary Blinken's now cancelled visit. Some Sino scholars have acknowledged that the shootdown 'demonstrated America's distrust of China rather than an attempt by China to provoke or challenge Washington; the more so as Biden is under pressure to show toughness in dealing with China.' Recovery of the balloon's payload will clarify matters considerably-but one thing is clear, it wasn't a weather balloon...so the Chinese are, at least, liars who don't apologize for accidental airspace intrusions at best. Footnote to history: this was the first US target kill from such a high altitude(approx 58,000 ft).