Just a trick to defame China

In an era full of advanced technologies, including man-made satellites, common sense and a professional perspective will tell anyone that a "spy balloon" is a ridiculous assumption. The Pentagon's accusation is nothing but a story to play up the "China threat theory".

Ratcheting up tensions with China is a card that the US has played to add bargaining chips before US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's widely-expected visit to China, and a popular tactic of the US government for benefits.

The US still adopts a Cold War mentality against China. Washington has established alliances, such as the AUKUS, to contain China, and the "China threat theory" was used as an excuse to enhance US-centered alliances.

Besides, US intelligence agencies need foreign threats — real or made-up — to benefit from.

But the Biden administration should realize that China-bashing is akin to playing with fire. The tactics to win support at home by inciting hatred will also make the US society more divided.

Liu Qiang, director of the academic council and a senior research fellow at the Shanghai Centre for RimPac Strategic and International Studies.