China Responds Strongly to US Cybersecurity Claims: A Call for Accountability

Beijing's Reaction to US Threat Assessment

Beijing: A spokesperson for the Chinese military criticized a recent report from the United States, labeling its comments about China as reckless. The spokesperson emphasized that disparaging China will not erase the US's reputation as a leading nation in cyber intrusions.

Zhang Xiaogang, representing the Ministry of National Defence, made these statements in response to inquiries about the 2025 Annual Threat Assessment published by the US Office of the Director of National Intelligence.

According to Zhang, the US frequently accuses other nations of actions it itself engages in, asserting that it is not only the primary source of cyberattacks against China but also a notorious global cyber menace.

He pointed out the US's troubling history with cyber issues, referencing incidents like WikiLeaks, Edward Snowden's revelations, and various surveillance programs.

Zhang asserted that the US is relentless in its efforts to conduct surveillance, steal sensitive information, and launch attacks on other nations.

He stated, "Disparaging China will not change the US's image as the empire of hacking," urging the US to cease its cyberattacks on other countries, including China, and to work towards creating a secure and responsible cyberspace.

The spokesperson also commented on the US's proposed defense budget for fiscal year 2026, which is set to reach an unprecedented $1 trillion, stating that such military spending would not restore America's greatness.

Zhang warned that this approach would only lead to suffering for the American populace and the global community.

He highlighted that the exorbitant defense budget reflects the aggressive stance of the US and its belief in the principle of 'might makes right.'

Despite being heavily indebted, the US continues to invest ill-gotten gains from other nations into weapon manufacturing.

Zhang called on the US to abandon its fixation on dominance and recognize that excessive force will not lead to a resurgence of American greatness.