The Chinese balloon that was seen over the United States during the week has been shot down by American fighter jets, AP reports. According to the news agency, an operation is now underway to collect the remains of the hot air balloon. Before the shooting, departures from three airports in North and South Carolina were suspended.
When US President Joe Biden was informed about the balloon on Tuesday, he initially wanted to take it down over land. But on the advice of the US Defense Forces, the White House chose to wait and instead planned to shoot down the balloon when it reaches the sea, writes ABC news.
Biden, who previously chose not to comment on the subject, later stated that they will “handle” the balloon.
– We will take care of it, Joe Biden said in a comment to CNN.
Now the balloon has been shot down, says AP.