Former Vice President Pence Criticizes Biden’s Response to China’s ‘Spy Balloon’ and Calls for Stronger Action
Former Vice President Mike Pence has criticized President Joe Biden’s response to China’s spy balloon incident and called for stronger action against Beijing. Speaking at a conference in Atlanta, Pence argued that China’s provocative actions, including sending a balloon over strategic sites in the United States and engaging in aggressive military maneuvers, warranted a more assertive response from the US.
Pence expressed his disbelief that Biden chose to send Secretary of State Antony Blinken to request a meeting with the Xi regime instead of taking a more forceful approach. In Pence’s opinion, the US should have deployed an aircraft carrier to demonstrate its resolve and demand an end to China’s aggressive actions. He emphasized that continuing to send officials like climate envoy John Kerry to meet with China, despite Beijing’s increasing military aggression and human rights abuses, only served to enable and embolden the Chinese government.
The Chinese spy balloon incident took place earlier this year when a balloon flew across American airspace for over a week, collecting intelligence from key US military sites before being shot down near South Carolina. Pence highlighted the significance of this incident, stating that it was essential for the US to respond firmly to safeguard national security interests.
Pence’s criticism of the Biden administration extends beyond its handling of China. He accused the administration of being AWOL on the world stage and expressed his dismay over the recent decision to provide $6 billion to Iran in exchange for the release of American hostages. Pence referred to this action as wrong and drew parallels with the Obama-Biden administration’s controversial delivery of cash to Iran.
Furthermore, Pence linked the United States’ withdrawal from Afghanistan to Russia’s subsequent invasion of Ukraine. He argued that the withdrawal had emboldened Russia and underscored the importance of supporting Ukraine’s armed forces. According to Pence, with US and allied support, Ukraine has been able to degrade the Russian military.
In addition to criticizing the Biden administration, Pence expressed his concern about the growing isolationist sentiment within the Republican presidential primary field. He voiced his belief that America should continue to be the leader of the free world, maintaining engagement and providing support where necessary.
Pence’s remarks highlight the ongoing debate surrounding the appropriate response to China’s increasing assertiveness, as well as broader foreign policy considerations in the Republican Party. As the US navigates its relationships with global powers, such as China and Russia, differing viewpoints and strategies will continue to shape the country’s international position.
Disclaimer: This article presents the views and opinions of former Vice President Mike Pence and provides an overview of his criticisms of the Biden administration’s response to China’s spy balloon incident. The article does not endorse or support any particular political viewpoint or policy.
