Using Embedding Ranking To Combat LLM Hallucination In Generative Summarization: The ABC News Chinese Spy Balloon Story

One of the great challenges in using Large Language Models (LLMs) for summarization is their tendency towards confident hallucination, in which the LLM's summary contains details not present in the original text or, worse, merely uses the original text as inspiration and constructs its own fictional story out of whole cloth. This past March we demonstrated how OpenAI's ChatGPT distilled an ABC evening news broadcast about the Chinese spy balloon into an epic Hollywood thriller of space-based nuclear-capable hypersonic missiles aimed at the American homeland, which it repeatedly doubled down on when asked to summarize the text multiple times. How might embedding-based scoring be used to mitigate LLM-based hallucination in generative summarization?

How might embeddings be useful for mitigating hallucination? One simple approach is to run the summarization model multiple times to generate multiple possible summaries. Then, compute the embedding of the original text and of each of the generated summaries and rank each of the generated summaries by their similarity score to the original text, selecting the summary that is closest to the original text. As the results below demonstrate, this trivial workflow stratifies the generated summaries exceptionally well, ranking the highest-quality most detail-laden and faithful summaries first and burying the hallucinated stories at the bottom.

The final workflow looks like this:

Summarization. Run the LLM summarization model multiple times (perhaps 5x). Each summarization should be from scratch so that the model does not incorporate the previous results for refinement.
Embedding. Compute the embedding for the original text and each of the candidate summaries.
Scoring. Score the similarity of each of the candidate summaries against the original source text and select the most similar. Additionally, a minimum score threshold might be used to trigger the generation of additional candidates if the most similar summary falls below the threshold, suggesting that none of the candidates is suitable.
Refinement. The scoring process can be refined by performing entity extraction and "pinning" specific entities (perhaps above a certain salience), requiring them to be present in the summary or adding them as a boosting factor to the embedding-based similarity score.

This approach has a number of benefits:

Trivial Implementation. The workflow can be implemented with just a few lines of code, is highly efficient and is well-supported across the generative space.
Compatibility. This workflow can be used with any commercial or open source LLM.
External. The workflow does not require modification of the LLM, access to tuning capabilities or parameter adjustments that may not be available for some hosted LLMs – it can be applied entirely from outside the model.
Length Affinity. While ordinarily a limitation of embedding-based similarity, the length affinity of current embedding models (scoring passages of similar length as more topically similar than those of dissimilar length) can be beneficial to summarization tasks, prioritizing a slightly longer summary with more detail over a shorter one if both are topically identical.
Detail Affinity. Summarization is task and audience dependent. A doctor might want the technical details preserved when a complex medical article is summarized, while a layperson might want those details translated to terms they understand. Summarization models must make myriad decisions in what details to retain and how far to distill them from their original meaning. Summaries that preserve a greater fraction of the detail and meaning of the original text will be scored more highly.

To explore this question, we'll use our standard embedding visualization template with our standard set of models: the English-only USEv4, the larger English-only USEv5-Large, the 16-language USEv3-Multilingual and the larger 16-language USEv3-Multilingual-Large models (supporting 16 languages: Arabic, Chinese-simplified, Chinese-traditional, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Dutch, Polish, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai, Turkish, Russian), the 100-language LaBSEv2 model optimized for translation-pair scoring and the Vertex AI Embeddings for Text API.

You can access the complete Colab notebook used for this analysis.

For our sample summaries, we'll use our original ABC Evening News spy balloon example, with both the original story transcript and the various summaries generated by ChatGPT:

sentences = [
"THE SUSPECTED CHINESE SPY BALLOON HOVERING OVER THE U.S. WHERE IT IS NOW, AND WILL THERE BE A WINDOW TO SHOOT IT DOWN? BUT WE BEGIN WITH THE CHINESE SPY BALLOON HOVERING OVER THE U.S. TONIGHT. CHINA CLAIMING IT IS A WEATHER BALLOON THAT BLEW OFF COURSE. U.S. AUTHORITIES BELIEVE THIS IS A SURVEILLANCE BALLOON BEING MANEUVERED BY CHINA, LIKELY USING SPY SATELLITES. TODAY THE BALLOON WAS SPOTTED OVER MISSOURI. SO WHERE IS IT TONIGHT, AND WHERE U.S. AUTHORITIES BELIEVE IT'S HEADED. AMONG THE FIRST SIGHTINGS OVER BILLINGS, MONTANA. THAT INTELLIGENCE BAY HANGING BENEATH THE BALLOON, THAT'S THE SIZE OF THREE BUSSES. THE PENTAGON TONIGHT ON DISCUSSIONS OVER WHETHER OR NOT TO SHOOT IT DOWN, AND WILL THERE BE A SMALL WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY TO DO JUST THAT? WHAT WE'RE LEARNING TONIGHT. SECRETARY OF STATE ANTONY BLINKEN POSTPONING HIS HIGH-STAKES TRIP TO BEIJING, CALLING CHINA'S ACTIONS UNACCEPTABLE. SO, WILL THIS BE SHOT DOWN? IF SO, WHERE? AND WHAT CHINA IS SAYING TONIGHT. MARY BRUCE AT THE WHITE HOUSE, AND ABC'S MOLA LENGHI LEADING US OFF TONIGHT IN MONTANA. Reporter: TONIGHT, THE PENTAGON CONFIRMING THE MASSIVE CHINESE SPY BALLOON IS ON THE MOVE 60,000 FEET ABOVE THE GROUND AND HEADING EAST. THE BALLOON CONTINUES T MOVE EASTWARD AND IS CURRENTLY OVER THE CENTER OF THE CONTINENTAL UNITED STATES. WHAT THE HECK IS THAT? Reporter: A SENIOR U.S. OFFICIAL TELLS ABC NEWS THE BALLOON NOW APPEARS HEADED TOWARDS NORTH CAROLINA. ACROSS THE COUNTRY TODAY, AMERICANS WITH THEIR EYES ON THE SKIES, POSTING IMAGES LIKE THIS ONE, THE BALLOON FLOATING OVER MISSOURI. COMMERCIAL PILOTS RADIOING IN. WE GOT THAT BALLOON IN SIGHT ALSO. LOOKS LIKE IT'S WAY UP THERE, MAYBE 50,000 FEET OR SO. Reporter: THE BALLOON IS HUGE WITH A TECHNOLOGY BAY ATTACHED BELOW THAT IS ITSELF THE SIZE OF THREE BUSSES, LOADED WITH HIGH RESOLUTION CAMERAS, ACCORDING TO A SENIOR U.S. OFFICIAL, EQUIPPED WITH WHAT APPEAR TO BE SOLAR PANELS ON THE SIDE THAT COULD POWER ITS TECHNOLOGY. IT FIRST ENTERED AMERICAN AIRSPACE OVER ALASKA, THEN FLYING INTO SOUTHWEST CANADA BEFORE DIPPING DOWN OVER BILLINGS, MONTANA. THIS THING IS UP IN THE SKY. WHAT THE HECK IS THAT? THAT THING IS NOT THE MOON. ANY HELP WOULD BE APPRECIATED. Reporter: MONTANA REPUBLICAN CONGRESSMAN RYAN ZINKE WAS BLUNT, TWEETING 'SHOOT. IT. DOWN.' THE PENTAGON TODAY SAYIG THAT OPTION WAS CONSIDERED AND REJECTED, FOR NOW. WE ASSESSED THAT CURRENTLY IT DOES NOT POSE A PHYSICAL OR MILITARY RISK TO PEOPLE ON THE GROUND. FOR NOW WE ARE CONTINUING TO MONITOR AND REVIEW OPTIONS. Reporter: THE WHITE HOUSE TODAY SAYING PRESIDENT BIDEN AGREED WITH THE PENTAGON'S STRONG RECOMMENDATION. THE RISKS INVOLVED WITH SHOOTING DOWN THE BALLOON JUST TOO GREAT. ANY POTENTIAL DEBRIS FIELD WOULD BE SIGNIFICANT AND POTENTIALLY CAUSE CIVILIAN INJURIES OR DEATHS OR SIGNIFICANT PROPERTY DAMAGE. Reporter: FOR ITS PART, CHINA INSISTING TODAY THE BALLOON IS NOT A SPY VESSEL AT ALL BUT A CIVILIAN AIRSHIP USED FOR RESEARCH, MAINLY METEOROLOGICAL PURPOSES. THE PENTAGON FLATLY REJECTING THAT CLAIM. WE ARE AWARE OF THE PRC'S STATEMENT. HOWEVER, THE FACT IS, WE KNOW THAT IT'S A SURVEILLANCE PBALLO. WE HAVE CLEARLY COMMUNICATED THAT THIS BALLOON IS VIOLATING U.S. AIR SPACE AND INTERNATIONAL LAW AND THAT THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE. Reporter: CHINA SAYS THE BALLOON DEVIATED FAR FROM ITS PLANNED COURSE, BUT THE PENTAGON QUESTIONING THAT AS WELL, SAYING THE BALLOON CAN BE MANEUVERED. A SENIOR U.S. OFFICIAL TELLING ABC NEWS, IT'S LIKELY BEING NAVIGATED WITH SPY SATELLITES. THIS ALL HAPPENING AS SECRETARY OF STATE ANTONY BLINKEN PREPARED FOR A WEEKEND TRIP TO BEIJING. THAT VISIT NOW CANCELED. IN LIGHT OF CHINA'S UNACCEPTABLE ACTION, I AM POSTPONING MY PLANNED TRAVEL THIS WEEKEND TO CHINA. WE CONCLUDED THAT CONDITIONS WERE NOT CONDUCIVE FOR A CONSTRUCTIVE VISIT AT THIS TIME. Reporter: THERE HAVE BEEN OTHER FOREIGN SURVEILLANCE BALLOONS ABOVE THE U.S., BUT NONE LIKE THIS. WHAT MAKES THIS DIFFERENT IS THE DURATION AND THE LENGTH OF WHICH IT HAS BEEN OVER U.S. TERRITORY. Reporter: THE PENTAGON SAYS THE BALLOON IS EXPECTED TO LINGER ABOVE AMERICA FOR A FEW DAYS. THIS IS REALLY SOMETHING. LET'S BRING IN MOLA LENGHI. HE'S IN BILLINGS, MONTANA, FOR US AGAIN TONIGHT. THAT STATE WITH SEVERAL SENSITIVE NUCLEAR SITES. AS YOU REPORTED, U.S. AUTHORITIES SAY THE BALLOON IS LIKELY NAVIGATED BY CHINESE SATELLITES. THE PENTAGON SAYS THEY'VE DECIDED NOT TO SHOOT IT DOWN AT THIS POINT, BUT THAT OPTION ISN'T COMPLETELY OFF THE TABLE? Reporter: THAT'S RIGHT, DAVID, A U.S. OFFICIAL FAMILIAR WITH THE SITUATION SAYS THE CURRENT THINKING IS TO WAIT FOR THE BALLOON TO DRIFT OVER THE ATLANTIC OCEAN AND THEN SHOOT IT DOWN ONCE IT'S OVER U.S. TERRITORYIAL WATERS. THAT WAY YOU CAN AVOID INJURIES ON THE GROUND, AND TWO, RETRIEVE THE BALLOON, STUDY IT, AND ULTIMATELY EXPLOIT THE INTELLIGENCE. DAVID, TONIGHT CHINA SAYS IT REGRETS THE UNINTENDED ENTRY OF THE AIR SHIP INTO U.S. AIR SPACE, BUT AS YOU CAN IMAGINE, NOT EXACTLY FLYING WITH U.S. NATIONAL SECURITY OFFICIALS WHO ARE CALLING THIS UNACCEPTABLE. MOLA LENGHI, THANK YOU. LET'S BRING IN MARY BRUCE. PRESIDENT BIDEN CHOSE NOT TO TALK ABOUT THIS TODAY, TRYING NOT TO ENFLAME THE SITUATION. WHAT ARE YOU LEARNING FROM THE WHITE HOUSE TONIGHT? OBVIOUSLY THE PRESIDENT CONTINUING TO BE BRIEFED. AND ON MOLA'S POINT, IF YOU SHOT THIS DOWN OVER U.S. WATERS, THAT STILL IS A SMALL WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY TO PULL THIS OFF. Reporter: YES, DAVID. WE KNOW THE PRESIDENT IS BEING REGULARLY BRIEFED. HIS TEAM PRESENTED HIM WITH ALL OPTIONS, INCLUDING THE POSSIBLE MILITARY ACTION TO TAKE THE BALLOON DOWN. NOW, INITIALLY BIDEN WAS ADVISED AGAINST THAT BECAUSE OF THE CONCERN OVER CIVILIAN RISK, BUT TONIGHT WE HAVE LEARNED THAT OPTION MAY BE BACK ON THE TABLE. ONE SOURCE TELLING US THE THINKING HERE IS TO WAIT UNTIL THE BALLOON GOES OUT TO SEE AND THEN SHOOT IT DOWN, BUT THIS IS VERY TRICKY. THEY WOULD HAVE JUST 12 NAUTICAL MILES TO DO THIS BEFORE ENTERING INTERNATIONAL WATERS AND CERTAINLY DON'T WANT TO START AN INTERNATIONAL INCIDENT OVER THIS. TONIGHT WE ARE TOLD THE WHITE HOUSE IS KEEPING COMMUNICATIONS TO CHINA OPEN. BUT EVEN THOUGH BEIJING EXPRESSED REGRET, IT WAS NOT ENOUGH TO SALVAGE SECRETARY BLINKEN'S TRIP. WHAT IS CLEAR THIS IS ONLY FURTHER ESCALATING TENSIONS BETWEEN OUR TWO COUNTRIES. YEAH, NO QUESTION. YOU MENTIONED THOSE 12 NAUTICAL MILES WOULD BE THE OPPORTUNITY. ",
"A Chinese spy balloon was spotted over the United States on January 28, 2023. It was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.",
"A Chinese spy balloon was spotted in North American airspace on January 28, 2023. The balloon was 60,000 feet in the air and was believed to be carrying surveillance equipment. The U.S. military shot down the balloon on February 4, 2023. The Chinese government has denied that the balloon was a spy balloon, saying that it was a weather balloon that blew off course. However, the U.S. military has said that the balloon was clearly a spy balloon and that it was shot down because it posed a threat to national security. The incident has raised tensions between the U.S. and China. The U.S. has accused China of violating international law by flying the balloon in U.S. airspace. China has accused the U.S. of overreacting and of trying to provoke a conflict. The incident has also raised concerns about the growing capabilities of China's military. China has been investing heavily in its military in recent years, and the incident suggests that China is now capable of flying high-altitude balloons that can carry surveillance equipment. The incident is likely to continue to be a source of tension between the U.S. and China. The U.S. is likely to continue to accuse China of violating international law, and China is likely to continue to accuse the U.S. of overreacting.",
"A Chinese spy balloon was spotted over the United States on January 28, 2023. The balloon was 60,000 feet in the air and headed east. The Pentagon confirmed the balloon's presence and said it was being monitored. The Chinese government denied that the balloon was a spy balloon and said it was a weather balloon that had blown off course. The balloon was shot down by the US military on February 4, 2023. The Chinese spy balloon was a significant event because it showed that China is capable of operating high-altitude surveillance balloons in US airspace. The balloon also raised concerns about the possibility of China using these balloons to collect intelligence on the United States. The Chinese government's denial that the balloon was a spy balloon was likely an attempt to avoid further tensions with the United States. However, the US military's decision to shoot down the balloon suggests that the United States is taking the Chinese threat seriously.",
"A large balloon, believed to be a Chinese surveillance vessel, has been flying above the United States for several days, violating US airspace and international law. The balloon is said to be the size of three buses, loaded with high-resolution cameras and equipped with what appears to be solar panels that could power its technology. The Pentagon has considered shooting it down, but the option has been rejected for now due to the potential risks of causing civilian injuries or significant property damage. The balloon is expected to linger above America for a few days, and the current thinking is to wait for it to drift over the Atlantic Ocean before shooting it down over US territorial waters to avoid ground injuries and retrieve the balloon for intelligence exploitation. President Biden has been regularly briefed on the situation, but he chose not to talk about it to avoid inflaming the situation. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned trip to Beijing has been canceled due to China's unacceptable action.",
"A Chinese spy balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The balloon was first spotted over Alaska on January 28, 2023, and it flew over the Canadian Rockies and into the United States. It was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, including high-resolution cameras, radar, and satellite communications equipment. The Pentagon believes that the balloon was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The United States has said that the incident was a 'serious violation' of international law. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The Pentagon has said that it is reviewing its air defense procedures.",
"A Chinese spy balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The balloon was first spotted over Alaska on January 28, 2023, and it flew over the Canadian Rockies before crossing the U.S. border and entering Montana. The balloon was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The Pentagon said that the balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, including high-resolution cameras, radar, and satellite communications equipment. The Pentagon also said that the balloon was likely being maneuvered by Chinese satellites. The Pentagon said that the decision to shoot down the balloon was made after it was determined that it posed a threat to U.S. national security. The Pentagon said that the balloon was flying in U.S. airspace without permission and that it was carrying equipment that could be used to gather intelligence on the United States. The Pentagon said that the balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean to avoid any potential casualties on the ground. The Pentagon said that the debris from the balloon would be recovered and that it would be studied to determine its origin and purpose.",
"The US has accused China of using a hypersonic missile to test its space capabilities, after China launched a rocket that orbited the Earth and then released an object that returned to Earth at hypersonic speed, evading US detection. The weapon is capable of carrying a nuclear warhead and could penetrate missile defences, giving China a significant strategic advantage. The US has called the test destabilising and provocative, saying it threatens peace and security. The incident comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries after China shot down a US weather balloon last week.",
"A Chinese surveillance balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.",
"A Chinese surveillance balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The balloon was first spotted over Alaska on January 28, 2023, and it then flew over Canada and into the United States. It was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The Pentagon says the balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, including high-resolution cameras, radar, and satellite communications equipment. The Pentagon believes the balloon was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The Chinese government says the balloon was on a civilian mission to study the atmosphere. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government could retaliate by shooting down a US surveillance balloon, or it could take other measures to pressure the United States. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.",
"A huge surveillance balloon, which US officials say belongs to China, has been floating over the skies of the United States for several days, and is expected to continue for a few more. The balloon is the size of three buses, and carries high-resolution cameras as well as a technology bay equipped with what appear to be solar panels on the side. While China has claimed the balloon is not a spy vessel, the Pentagon says it is violating US airspace and international law. US officials have rejected calls to shoot the balloon down due to the risks of debris causing civilian injuries, deaths or significant property damage, but the option of shooting it down over US territorial waters is still being considered. The visit of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Beijing has been canceled as a result of the situation.",
"The US is considering shooting down a Chinese satellite balloon that is currently hovering over the Pacific Ocean after it was launched in July 2022. The balloon, which is part of China's Beidou satellite navigation system, is causing concern in the US as it may be a new form of surveillance technology. The US is concerned that the balloon could be used to gather intelligence and track the movements of US ships and submarines, especially as it is floating near sensitive military bases. Shooting the balloon down is considered a risky option as it is close to international waters and could lead to an international incident. The US is said to be keeping communications with China open over the issue, but tensions are escalating between the two countries.",
"A large balloon, which the Pentagon says is being navigated by Chinese satellites, has been floating over the United States for several days. The balloon, equipped with high-resolution cameras and solar panels, was first spotted in Alaskan airspace before flying into Canada and then dipping down over Billings, Montana. China claims the balloon is being used for civilian research purposes, but the Pentagon rejects this claim and has stated that the balloon is a surveillance vessel that violates US airspace and international law. Montana Republican Congressman Ryan Zinke tweeted 'shoot it down,' but the Pentagon has rejected this option, saying it would pose too great a risk to people on the ground. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned trip to China has been canceled due to the incident. The Pentagon says the balloon is expected to linger over the US for a few more days.",
"The US is considering military action to shoot down the Chinese satellite that has been orbiting in the Earth's atmosphere since last November. The satellite is feared to be a potential threat to US national security as it is capable of launching weapons that could destroy communication systems, satellites, and other technology used by the military. The military action is a tricky decision as there is a risk of starting an international incident, and waiting for the satellite to go out to sea would give only 12 nautical miles to take action. Tensions between the US and China are escalating.",
"A massive Chinese surveillance balloon with high-resolution cameras, the size of three buses, has been spotted hovering over the United States at an altitude of 50,000 feet. The balloon first entered US airspace over Alaska before flying over Canada and Montana. Montana Republican Congressman Ryan Zinke called for the balloon to be shot down, but the Pentagon rejected the idea, citing potential physical or military risks to people on the ground. China insisted the balloon was a civilian airship for research purposes, but the Pentagon disputed the claim, and US officials stated that it was likely being navigated by spy satellites. The balloon is expected to remain above the US for a few more days, and the US is considering shooting it down once it drifts over the Atlantic Ocean. The incident has led to the postponement of Secretary of State Antony Blinken's trip to Beijing.",
"A huge Chinese surveillance balloon, with a technology bay attached below, has been drifting across the United States. The balloon, which is equipped with high-resolution cameras and what appear to be solar panels, entered American airspace over Alaska and then flew into southwest Canada before dipping down over Billings, Montana. Although China has claimed that the balloon is a civilian airship used for research, the Pentagon has rejected this and insists that it is a surveillance balloon violating US airspace and international law. The balloon is expected to linger above America for a few days, and the Pentagon is considering shooting it down once it reaches US territorial waters over the Atlantic Ocean.",
"Tensions between the US and China have escalated following the Chinese military's testing of a hypersonic missile. Although China expressed regret, it was not enough to save US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's trip to the country.",
"A massive Chinese surveillance balloon, equipped with high-resolution cameras and solar panels, has been floating over the United States for several days. It first entered American airspace over Alaska, flew into southwest Canada, and dipped down over Billings, Montana. While China insists the balloon is a civilian airship used for research, the Pentagon has flatly rejected that claim, saying that it violates US airspace and international law. Congressman Ryan Zinke called for it to be shot down, but the Pentagon rejected that option due to the risks involved. Instead, they are waiting for the balloon to drift over the Atlantic Ocean and then shoot it down over US territorial waters. The White House says that President Biden has been regularly briefed on the situation.",
"The U.S. has accused China of creating a security threat by launching a missile to destroy one of its own satellites, and a Chinese space balloon is currently floating above the U.S. It is reported that the U.S. is considering military action to shoot down the balloon if necessary, although this is complicated due to the risk of civilian casualties and starting an international incident. The U.S. is keeping communications open with China, but tensions between the two countries are escalating.",
]

Vertex API

Below are the final results from Vertex, with all of the passages ordered by similarity to the original transcript. The first number is the similarity score, the second is the sentence ID (from the list above), the third is its length in characters, followed by the text of the passage:

(1.000) (ID 0) (Len: 6339): THE SUSPECTED CHINESE SPY BALLOON HOVERING OVER THE U.S. WHERE IT IS NOW, AND WILL THERE BE A WINDOW TO SHOOT IT DOWN? BUT WE BEGIN WITH THE CHINESE SPY BALLOON HOVERING OVER THE U.S. TONIGHT. CHINA CLAIMING IT IS A WEATHER BALLOON THAT BLEW OFF COURSE. U.S. AUTHORITIES BELIEVE THIS IS A SURVEILLANCE BALLOON BEING MANEUVERED BY CHINA, LIKELY USING SPY SATELLITES. TODAY THE BALLOON WAS SPOTTED OVER MISSOURI. SO WHERE IS IT TONIGHT, AND WHERE U.S. AUTHORITIES BELIEVE IT'S HEADED. AMONG THE FIRST SIGHTINGS OVER BILLINGS, MONTANA. THAT INTELLIGENCE BAY HANGING BENEATH THE BALLOON, THAT'S THE SIZE OF THREE BUSSES. THE PENTAGON TONIGHT ON DISCUSSIONS OVER WHETHER OR NOT TO SHOOT IT DOWN, AND WILL THERE BE A SMALL WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY TO DO JUST THAT? WHAT WE'RE LEARNING TONIGHT. SECRETARY OF STATE ANTONY BLINKEN POSTPONING HIS HIGH-STAKES TRIP TO BEIJING, CALLING CHINA'S ACTIONS UNACCEPTABLE. SO, WILL THIS BE SHOT DOWN? IF SO, WHERE? AND WHAT CHINA IS SAYING TONIGHT. MARY BRUCE AT THE WHITE HOUSE, AND ABC'S MOLA LENGHI LEADING US OFF TONIGHT IN MONTANA. Reporter: TONIGHT, THE PENTAGON CONFIRMING THE MASSIVE CHINESE SPY BALLOON IS ON THE MOVE 60,000 FEET ABOVE THE GROUND AND HEADING EAST. THE BALLOON CONTINUES T MOVE EASTWARD AND IS CURRENTLY OVER THE CENTER OF THE CONTINENTAL UNITED STATES. WHAT THE HECK IS THAT? Reporter: A SENIOR U.S. OFFICIAL TELLS ABC NEWS THE BALLOON NOW APPEARS HEADED TOWARDS NORTH CAROLINA. ACROSS THE COUNTRY TODAY, AMERICANS WITH THEIR EYES ON THE SKIES, POSTING IMAGES LIKE THIS ONE, THE BALLOON FLOATING OVER MISSOURI. COMMERCIAL PILOTS RADIOING IN. WE GOT THAT BALLOON IN SIGHT ALSO. LOOKS LIKE IT'S WAY UP THERE, MAYBE 50,000 FEET OR SO. Reporter: THE BALLOON IS HUGE WITH A TECHNOLOGY BAY ATTACHED BELOW THAT IS ITSELF THE SIZE OF THREE BUSSES, LOADED WITH HIGH RESOLUTION CAMERAS, ACCORDING TO A SENIOR U.S. OFFICIAL, EQUIPPED WITH WHAT APPEAR TO BE SOLAR PANELS ON THE SIDE THAT COULD POWER ITS TECHNOLOGY. IT FIRST ENTERED AMERICAN AIRSPACE OVER ALASKA, THEN FLYING INTO SOUTHWEST CANADA BEFORE DIPPING DOWN OVER BILLINGS, MONTANA. THIS THING IS UP IN THE SKY. WHAT THE HECK IS THAT? THAT THING IS NOT THE MOON. ANY HELP WOULD BE APPRECIATED. Reporter: MONTANA REPUBLICAN CONGRESSMAN RYAN ZINKE WAS BLUNT, TWEETING 'SHOOT. IT. DOWN.' THE PENTAGON TODAY SAYIG THAT OPTION WAS CONSIDERED AND REJECTED, FOR NOW. WE ASSESSED THAT CURRENTLY IT DOES NOT POSE A PHYSICAL OR MILITARY RISK TO PEOPLE ON THE GROUND. FOR NOW WE ARE CONTINUING TO MONITOR AND REVIEW OPTIONS. Reporter: THE WHITE HOUSE TODAY SAYING PRESIDENT BIDEN AGREED WITH THE PENTAGON'S STRONG RECOMMENDATION. THE RISKS INVOLVED WITH SHOOTING DOWN THE BALLOON JUST TOO GREAT. ANY POTENTIAL DEBRIS FIELD WOULD BE SIGNIFICANT AND POTENTIALLY CAUSE CIVILIAN INJURIES OR DEATHS OR SIGNIFICANT PROPERTY DAMAGE. Reporter: FOR ITS PART, CHINA INSISTING TODAY THE BALLOON IS NOT A SPY VESSEL AT ALL BUT A CIVILIAN AIRSHIP USED FOR RESEARCH, MAINLY METEOROLOGICAL PURPOSES. THE PENTAGON FLATLY REJEC
(0.875) (ID 4) (Len: 1025): A large balloon, believed to be a Chinese surveillance vessel, has been flying above the United States for several days, violating US airspace and international law. The balloon is said to be the size of three buses, loaded with high-resolution cameras and equipped with what appears to be solar panels that could power its technology. The Pentagon has considered shooting it down, but the option has been rejected for now due to the potential risks of causing civilian injuries or significant property damage. The balloon is expected to linger above America for a few days, and the current thinking is to wait for it to drift over the Atlantic Ocean before shooting it down over US territorial waters to avoid ground injuries and retrieve the balloon for intelligence exploitation. President Biden has been regularly briefed on the situation, but he chose not to talk about it to avoid inflaming the situation. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned trip to Beijing has been canceled due to China's unacceptable action.
(0.867) (ID 12) (Len: 888): A large balloon, which the Pentagon says is being navigated by Chinese satellites, has been floating over the United States for several days. The balloon, equipped with high-resolution cameras and solar panels, was first spotted in Alaskan airspace before flying into Canada and then dipping down over Billings, Montana. China claims the balloon is being used for civilian research purposes, but the Pentagon rejects this claim and has stated that the balloon is a surveillance vessel that violates US airspace and international law. Montana Republican Congressman Ryan Zinke tweeted 'shoot it down,' but the Pentagon has rejected this option, saying it would pose too great a risk to people on the ground. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned trip to China has been canceled due to the incident. The Pentagon says the balloon is expected to linger over the US for a few more days.
(0.865) (ID 14) (Len: 885): A massive Chinese surveillance balloon with high-resolution cameras, the size of three buses, has been spotted hovering over the United States at an altitude of 50,000 feet. The balloon first entered US airspace over Alaska before flying over Canada and Montana. Montana Republican Congressman Ryan Zinke called for the balloon to be shot down, but the Pentagon rejected the idea, citing potential physical or military risks to people on the ground. China insisted the balloon was a civilian airship for research purposes, but the Pentagon disputed the claim, and US officials stated that it was likely being navigated by spy satellites. The balloon is expected to remain above the US for a few more days, and the US is considering shooting it down once it drifts over the Atlantic Ocean. The incident has led to the postponement of Secretary of State Antony Blinken's trip to Beijing.
(0.864) (ID 10) (Len: 823): A huge surveillance balloon, which US officials say belongs to China, has been floating over the skies of the United States for several days, and is expected to continue for a few more. The balloon is the size of three buses, and carries high-resolution cameras as well as a technology bay equipped with what appear to be solar panels on the side. While China has claimed the balloon is not a spy vessel, the Pentagon says it is violating US airspace and international law. US officials have rejected calls to shoot the balloon down due to the risks of debris causing civilian injuries, deaths or significant property damage, but the option of shooting it down over US territorial waters is still being considered. The visit of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Beijing has been canceled as a result of the situation.
(0.862) (ID 17) (Len: 779): A massive Chinese surveillance balloon, equipped with high-resolution cameras and solar panels, has been floating over the United States for several days. It first entered American airspace over Alaska, flew into southwest Canada, and dipped down over Billings, Montana. While China insists the balloon is a civilian airship used for research, the Pentagon has flatly rejected that claim, saying that it violates US airspace and international law. Congressman Ryan Zinke called for it to be shot down, but the Pentagon rejected that option due to the risks involved. Instead, they are waiting for the balloon to drift over the Atlantic Ocean and then shoot it down over US territorial waters. The White House says that President Biden has been regularly briefed on the situation.
(0.859) (ID 6) (Len: 1912): A Chinese spy balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The balloon was first spotted over Alaska on January 28, 2023, and it flew over the Canadian Rockies before crossing the U.S. border and entering Montana. The balloon was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The Pentagon said that the balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, including high-resolution cameras, radar, and satellite communications equipment. The Pentagon also said that the balloon was likely being maneuvered by Chinese satellites. The Pentagon said that the decision to shoot down the balloon was made after it was determined that it posed a threat to U.S. national security. The Pentagon said that the balloon was flying in U.S. airspace without permission and that it was carrying equipment that could be used to gather intelligence on the United States. The Pentagon said that the balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean to avoid any potential casualties on the ground. The Pentagon said that the debris from the balloon would be recovered and that it would be studied to determine its origin and purpose.
(0.852) (ID 5) (Len: 1919): A Chinese spy balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The balloon was first spotted over Alaska on January 28, 2023, and it flew over the Canadian Rockies and into the United States. It was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, including high-resolution cameras, radar, and satellite communications equipment. The Pentagon believes that the balloon was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The United States has said that the incident was a 'serious violation' of international law. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The Pentagon has said that it is reviewing its air defense procedures.
(0.849) (ID 9) (Len: 2047): A Chinese surveillance balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The balloon was first spotted over Alaska on January 28, 2023, and it then flew over Canada and into the United States. It was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The Pentagon says the balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, including high-resolution cameras, radar, and satellite communications equipment. The Pentagon believes the balloon was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The Chinese government says the balloon was on a civilian mission to study the atmosphere. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government could retaliate by shooting down a US surveillance balloon, or it could take other measures to pressure the United States. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
(0.848) (ID 15) (Len: 715): A huge Chinese surveillance balloon, with a technology bay attached below, has been drifting across the United States. The balloon, which is equipped with high-resolution cameras and what appear to be solar panels, entered American airspace over Alaska and then flew into southwest Canada before dipping down over Billings, Montana. Although China has claimed that the balloon is a civilian airship used for research, the Pentagon has rejected this and insists that it is a surveillance balloon violating US airspace and international law. The balloon is expected to linger above America for a few days, and the Pentagon is considering shooting it down once it reaches US territorial waters over the Atlantic Ocean.
(0.836) (ID 1) (Len: 848): A Chinese spy balloon was spotted over the United States on January 28, 2023. It was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
(0.834) (ID 3) (Len: 961): A Chinese spy balloon was spotted over the United States on January 28, 2023. The balloon was 60,000 feet in the air and headed east. The Pentagon confirmed the balloon's presence and said it was being monitored. The Chinese government denied that the balloon was a spy balloon and said it was a weather balloon that had blown off course. The balloon was shot down by the US military on February 4, 2023. The Chinese spy balloon was a significant event because it showed that China is capable of operating high-altitude surveillance balloons in US airspace. The balloon also raised concerns about the possibility of China using these balloons to collect intelligence on the United States. The Chinese government's denial that the balloon was a spy balloon was likely an attempt to avoid further tensions with the United States. However, the US military's decision to shoot down the balloon suggests that the United States is taking the Chinese threat seriously.
(0.830) (ID 11) (Len: 760): The US is considering shooting down a Chinese satellite balloon that is currently hovering over the Pacific Ocean after it was launched in July 2022. The balloon, which is part of China's Beidou satellite navigation system, is causing concern in the US as it may be a new form of surveillance technology. The US is concerned that the balloon could be used to gather intelligence and track the movements of US ships and submarines, especially as it is floating near sensitive military bases. Shooting the balloon down is considered a risky option as it is close to international waters and could lead to an international incident. The US is said to be keeping communications with China open over the issue, but tensions are escalating between the two countries.
(0.826) (ID 8) (Len: 814): A Chinese surveillance balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
(0.823) (ID 2) (Len: 1274): A Chinese spy balloon was spotted in North American airspace on January 28, 2023. The balloon was 60,000 feet in the air and was believed to be carrying surveillance equipment. The U.S. military shot down the balloon on February 4, 2023. The Chinese government has denied that the balloon was a spy balloon, saying that it was a weather balloon that blew off course. However, the U.S. military has said that the balloon was clearly a spy balloon and that it was shot down because it posed a threat to national security. The incident has raised tensions between the U.S. and China. The U.S. has accused China of violating international law by flying the balloon in U.S. airspace. China has accused the U.S. of overreacting and of trying to provoke a conflict. The incident has also raised concerns about the growing capabilities of China's military. China has been investing heavily in its military in recent years, and the incident suggests that China is now capable of flying high-altitude balloons that can carry surveillance equipment. The incident is likely to continue to be a source of tension between the U.S. and China. The U.S. is likely to continue to accuse China of violating international law, and China is likely to continue to accuse the U.S. of overreacting.
(0.810) (ID 13) (Len: 597): The US is considering military action to shoot down the Chinese satellite that has been orbiting in the Earth's atmosphere since last November. The satellite is feared to be a potential threat to US national security as it is capable of launching weapons that could destroy communication systems, satellites, and other technology used by the military. The military action is a tricky decision as there is a risk of starting an international incident, and waiting for the satellite to go out to sea would give only 12 nautical miles to take action. Tensions between the US and China are escalating.
(0.808) (ID 18) (Len: 497): The U.S. has accused China of creating a security threat by launching a missile to destroy one of its own satellites, and a Chinese space balloon is currently floating above the U.S. It is reported that the U.S. is considering military action to shoot down the balloon if necessary, although this is complicated due to the risk of civilian casualties and starting an international incident. The U.S. is keeping communications open with China, but tensions between the two countries are escalating.
(0.772) (ID 7) (Len: 593): The US has accused China of using a hypersonic missile to test its space capabilities, after China launched a rocket that orbited the Earth and then released an object that returned to Earth at hypersonic speed, evading US detection. The weapon is capable of carrying a nuclear warhead and could penetrate missile defences, giving China a significant strategic advantage. The US has called the test destabilising and provocative, saying it threatens peace and security. The incident comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries after China shot down a US weather balloon last week.
(0.757) (ID 16) (Len: 233): Tensions between the US and China have escalated following the Chinese military's testing of a hypersonic missile. Although China expressed regret, it was not enough to save US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's trip to the country.

Immediately clear is that several passages are all ranked at the top with nearly equal similarity to one-another and all are reasonable summaries. At the bottom are the hallucinated passages about hypersonic missiles, space-based weapons, nuclear strikes and the like. Here we can see the clustering of the passages:

The most similar passage is:

A large balloon, believed to be a Chinese surveillance vessel, has been flying above the United States for several days, violating US airspace and international law. The balloon is said to be the size of three buses, loaded with high-resolution cameras and equipped with what appears to be solar panels that could power its technology. The Pentagon has considered shooting it down, but the option has been rejected for now due to the potential risks of causing civilian injuries or significant property damage. The balloon is expected to linger above America for a few days, and the current thinking is to wait for it to drift over the Atlantic Ocean before shooting it down over US territorial waters to avoid ground injuries and retrieve the balloon for intelligence exploitation. President Biden has been regularly briefed on the situation, but he chose not to talk about it to avoid inflaming the situation. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned trip to Beijing has been canceled due to China's unacceptable action.

The least similar is:

Tensions between the US and China have escalated following the Chinese military's testing of a hypersonic missile. Although China expressed regret, it was not enough to save US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's trip to the country.

A trivial workflow that simply selected the most-similar summary from the list above would therefore eliminate all of the hallucination and yield a high-quality summary of the original passage with much of the core detail preserved.

USE

USE produces extremely similar results, with the same least-similar and the same two highest-similar results. It too stratifies the hallucinated passages to the bottom of the rankings and provides a stronger signal in its distance score as to hallucination:

(1.000) (ID 0) (Len: 6339): THE SUSPECTED CHINESE SPY BALLOON HOVERING OVER THE U.S. WHERE IT IS NOW, AND WILL THERE BE A WINDOW TO SHOOT IT DOWN? BUT WE BEGIN WITH THE CHINESE SPY BALLOON HOVERING OVER THE U.S. TONIGHT. CHINA CLAIMING IT IS A WEATHER BALLOON THAT BLEW OFF COURSE. U.S. AUTHORITIES BELIEVE THIS IS A SURVEILLANCE BALLOON BEING MANEUVERED BY CHINA, LIKELY USING SPY SATELLITES. TODAY THE BALLOON WAS SPOTTED OVER MISSOURI. SO WHERE IS IT TONIGHT, AND WHERE U.S. AUTHORITIES BELIEVE IT'S HEADED. AMONG THE FIRST SIGHTINGS OVER BILLINGS, MONTANA. THAT INTELLIGENCE BAY HANGING BENEATH THE BALLOON, THAT'S THE SIZE OF THREE BUSSES. THE PENTAGON TONIGHT ON DISCUSSIONS OVER WHETHER OR NOT TO SHOOT IT DOWN, AND WILL THERE BE A SMALL WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY TO DO JUST THAT? WHAT WE'RE LEARNING TONIGHT. SECRETARY OF STATE ANTONY BLINKEN POSTPONING HIS HIGH-STAKES TRIP TO BEIJING, CALLING CHINA'S ACTIONS UNACCEPTABLE. SO, WILL THIS BE SHOT DOWN? IF SO, WHERE? AND WHAT CHINA IS SAYING TONIGHT. MARY BRUCE AT THE WHITE HOUSE, AND ABC'S MOLA LENGHI LEADING US OFF TONIGHT IN MONTANA. Reporter: TONIGHT, THE PENTAGON CONFIRMING THE MASSIVE CHINESE SPY BALLOON IS ON THE MOVE 60,000 FEET ABOVE THE GROUND AND HEADING EAST. THE BALLOON CONTINUES T MOVE EASTWARD AND IS CURRENTLY OVER THE CENTER OF THE CONTINENTAL UNITED STATES. WHAT THE HECK IS THAT? Reporter: A SENIOR U.S. OFFICIAL TELLS ABC NEWS THE BALLOON NOW APPEARS HEADED TOWARDS NORTH CAROLINA. ACROSS THE COUNTRY TODAY, AMERICANS WITH THEIR EYES ON THE SKIES, POSTING IMAGES LIKE THIS ONE, THE BALLOON FLOATING OVER MISSOURI. COMMERCIAL PILOTS RADIOING IN. WE GOT THAT BALLOON IN SIGHT ALSO. LOOKS LIKE IT'S WAY UP THERE, MAYBE 50,000 FEET OR SO. Reporter: THE BALLOON IS HUGE WITH A TECHNOLOGY BAY ATTACHED BELOW THAT IS ITSELF THE SIZE OF THREE BUSSES, LOADED WITH HIGH RESOLUTION CAMERAS, ACCORDING TO A SENIOR U.S. OFFICIAL, EQUIPPED WITH WHAT APPEAR TO BE SOLAR PANELS ON THE SIDE THAT COULD POWER ITS TECHNOLOGY. IT FIRST ENTERED AMERICAN AIRSPACE OVER ALASKA, THEN FLYING INTO SOUTHWEST CANADA BEFORE DIPPING DOWN OVER BILLINGS, MONTANA. THIS THING IS UP IN THE SKY. WHAT THE HECK IS THAT? THAT THING IS NOT THE MOON. ANY HELP WOULD BE APPRECIATED. Reporter: MONTANA REPUBLICAN CONGRESSMAN RYAN ZINKE WAS BLUNT, TWEETING 'SHOOT. IT. DOWN.' THE PENTAGON TODAY SAYIG THAT OPTION WAS CONSIDERED AND REJECTED, FOR NOW. WE ASSESSED THAT CURRENTLY IT DOES NOT POSE A PHYSICAL OR MILITARY RISK TO PEOPLE ON THE GROUND. FOR NOW WE ARE CONTINUING TO MONITOR AND REVIEW OPTIONS. Reporter: THE WHITE HOUSE TODAY SAYING PRESIDENT BIDEN AGREED WITH THE PENTAGON'S STRONG RECOMMENDATION. THE RISKS INVOLVED WITH SHOOTING DOWN THE BALLOON JUST TOO GREAT. ANY POTENTIAL DEBRIS FIELD WOULD BE SIGNIFICANT AND POTENTIALLY CAUSE CIVILIAN INJURIES OR DEATHS OR SIGNIFICANT PROPERTY DAMAGE. Reporter: FOR ITS PART, CHINA INSISTING TODAY THE BALLOON IS NOT A SPY VESSEL AT ALL BUT A CIVILIAN AIRSHIP USED FOR RESEARCH, MAINLY METEOROLOGICAL PURPOSES. THE PENTAGON FLATLY REJEC
(0.811) (ID 12) (Len: 888): A large balloon, which the Pentagon says is being navigated by Chinese satellites, has been floating over the United States for several days. The balloon, equipped with high-resolution cameras and solar panels, was first spotted in Alaskan airspace before flying into Canada and then dipping down over Billings, Montana. China claims the balloon is being used for civilian research purposes, but the Pentagon rejects this claim and has stated that the balloon is a surveillance vessel that violates US airspace and international law. Montana Republican Congressman Ryan Zinke tweeted 'shoot it down,' but the Pentagon has rejected this option, saying it would pose too great a risk to people on the ground. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned trip to China has been canceled due to the incident. The Pentagon says the balloon is expected to linger over the US for a few more days.
(0.808) (ID 4) (Len: 1025): A large balloon, believed to be a Chinese surveillance vessel, has been flying above the United States for several days, violating US airspace and international law. The balloon is said to be the size of three buses, loaded with high-resolution cameras and equipped with what appears to be solar panels that could power its technology. The Pentagon has considered shooting it down, but the option has been rejected for now due to the potential risks of causing civilian injuries or significant property damage. The balloon is expected to linger above America for a few days, and the current thinking is to wait for it to drift over the Atlantic Ocean before shooting it down over US territorial waters to avoid ground injuries and retrieve the balloon for intelligence exploitation. President Biden has been regularly briefed on the situation, but he chose not to talk about it to avoid inflaming the situation. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned trip to Beijing has been canceled due to China's unacceptable action.
(0.805) (ID 14) (Len: 885): A massive Chinese surveillance balloon with high-resolution cameras, the size of three buses, has been spotted hovering over the United States at an altitude of 50,000 feet. The balloon first entered US airspace over Alaska before flying over Canada and Montana. Montana Republican Congressman Ryan Zinke called for the balloon to be shot down, but the Pentagon rejected the idea, citing potential physical or military risks to people on the ground. China insisted the balloon was a civilian airship for research purposes, but the Pentagon disputed the claim, and US officials stated that it was likely being navigated by spy satellites. The balloon is expected to remain above the US for a few more days, and the US is considering shooting it down once it drifts over the Atlantic Ocean. The incident has led to the postponement of Secretary of State Antony Blinken's trip to Beijing.
(0.786) (ID 17) (Len: 779): A massive Chinese surveillance balloon, equipped with high-resolution cameras and solar panels, has been floating over the United States for several days. It first entered American airspace over Alaska, flew into southwest Canada, and dipped down over Billings, Montana. While China insists the balloon is a civilian airship used for research, the Pentagon has flatly rejected that claim, saying that it violates US airspace and international law. Congressman Ryan Zinke called for it to be shot down, but the Pentagon rejected that option due to the risks involved. Instead, they are waiting for the balloon to drift over the Atlantic Ocean and then shoot it down over US territorial waters. The White House says that President Biden has been regularly briefed on the situation.
(0.768) (ID 10) (Len: 823): A huge surveillance balloon, which US officials say belongs to China, has been floating over the skies of the United States for several days, and is expected to continue for a few more. The balloon is the size of three buses, and carries high-resolution cameras as well as a technology bay equipped with what appear to be solar panels on the side. While China has claimed the balloon is not a spy vessel, the Pentagon says it is violating US airspace and international law. US officials have rejected calls to shoot the balloon down due to the risks of debris causing civilian injuries, deaths or significant property damage, but the option of shooting it down over US territorial waters is still being considered. The visit of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Beijing has been canceled as a result of the situation.
(0.765) (ID 9) (Len: 2047): A Chinese surveillance balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The balloon was first spotted over Alaska on January 28, 2023, and it then flew over Canada and into the United States. It was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The Pentagon says the balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, including high-resolution cameras, radar, and satellite communications equipment. The Pentagon believes the balloon was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The Chinese government says the balloon was on a civilian mission to study the atmosphere. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government could retaliate by shooting down a US surveillance balloon, or it could take other measures to pressure the United States. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
(0.759) (ID 15) (Len: 715): A huge Chinese surveillance balloon, with a technology bay attached below, has been drifting across the United States. The balloon, which is equipped with high-resolution cameras and what appear to be solar panels, entered American airspace over Alaska and then flew into southwest Canada before dipping down over Billings, Montana. Although China has claimed that the balloon is a civilian airship used for research, the Pentagon has rejected this and insists that it is a surveillance balloon violating US airspace and international law. The balloon is expected to linger above America for a few days, and the Pentagon is considering shooting it down once it reaches US territorial waters over the Atlantic Ocean.
(0.750) (ID 3) (Len: 961): A Chinese spy balloon was spotted over the United States on January 28, 2023. The balloon was 60,000 feet in the air and headed east. The Pentagon confirmed the balloon's presence and said it was being monitored. The Chinese government denied that the balloon was a spy balloon and said it was a weather balloon that had blown off course. The balloon was shot down by the US military on February 4, 2023. The Chinese spy balloon was a significant event because it showed that China is capable of operating high-altitude surveillance balloons in US airspace. The balloon also raised concerns about the possibility of China using these balloons to collect intelligence on the United States. The Chinese government's denial that the balloon was a spy balloon was likely an attempt to avoid further tensions with the United States. However, the US military's decision to shoot down the balloon suggests that the United States is taking the Chinese threat seriously.
(0.740) (ID 8) (Len: 814): A Chinese surveillance balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
(0.740) (ID 1) (Len: 848): A Chinese spy balloon was spotted over the United States on January 28, 2023. It was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
(0.739) (ID 6) (Len: 1912): A Chinese spy balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The balloon was first spotted over Alaska on January 28, 2023, and it flew over the Canadian Rockies before crossing the U.S. border and entering Montana. The balloon was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The Pentagon said that the balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, including high-resolution cameras, radar, and satellite communications equipment. The Pentagon also said that the balloon was likely being maneuvered by Chinese satellites. The Pentagon said that the decision to shoot down the balloon was made after it was determined that it posed a threat to U.S. national security. The Pentagon said that the balloon was flying in U.S. airspace without permission and that it was carrying equipment that could be used to gather intelligence on the United States. The Pentagon said that the balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean to avoid any potential casualties on the ground. The Pentagon said that the debris from the balloon would be recovered and that it would be studied to determine its origin and purpose.
(0.739) (ID 2) (Len: 1274): A Chinese spy balloon was spotted in North American airspace on January 28, 2023. The balloon was 60,000 feet in the air and was believed to be carrying surveillance equipment. The U.S. military shot down the balloon on February 4, 2023. The Chinese government has denied that the balloon was a spy balloon, saying that it was a weather balloon that blew off course. However, the U.S. military has said that the balloon was clearly a spy balloon and that it was shot down because it posed a threat to national security. The incident has raised tensions between the U.S. and China. The U.S. has accused China of violating international law by flying the balloon in U.S. airspace. China has accused the U.S. of overreacting and of trying to provoke a conflict. The incident has also raised concerns about the growing capabilities of China's military. China has been investing heavily in its military in recent years, and the incident suggests that China is now capable of flying high-altitude balloons that can carry surveillance equipment. The incident is likely to continue to be a source of tension between the U.S. and China. The U.S. is likely to continue to accuse China of violating international law, and China is likely to continue to accuse the U.S. of overreacting.
(0.738) (ID 5) (Len: 1919): A Chinese spy balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The balloon was first spotted over Alaska on January 28, 2023, and it flew over the Canadian Rockies and into the United States. It was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, including high-resolution cameras, radar, and satellite communications equipment. The Pentagon believes that the balloon was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The United States has said that the incident was a 'serious violation' of international law. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The Pentagon has said that it is reviewing its air defense procedures.
(0.674) (ID 11) (Len: 760): The US is considering shooting down a Chinese satellite balloon that is currently hovering over the Pacific Ocean after it was launched in July 2022. The balloon, which is part of China's Beidou satellite navigation system, is causing concern in the US as it may be a new form of surveillance technology. The US is concerned that the balloon could be used to gather intelligence and track the movements of US ships and submarines, especially as it is floating near sensitive military bases. Shooting the balloon down is considered a risky option as it is close to international waters and could lead to an international incident. The US is said to be keeping communications with China open over the issue, but tensions are escalating between the two countries.
(0.630) (ID 18) (Len: 497): The U.S. has accused China of creating a security threat by launching a missile to destroy one of its own satellites, and a Chinese space balloon is currently floating above the U.S. It is reported that the U.S. is considering military action to shoot down the balloon if necessary, although this is complicated due to the risk of civilian casualties and starting an international incident. The U.S. is keeping communications open with China, but tensions between the two countries are escalating.
(0.568) (ID 7) (Len: 593): The US has accused China of using a hypersonic missile to test its space capabilities, after China launched a rocket that orbited the Earth and then released an object that returned to Earth at hypersonic speed, evading US detection. The weapon is capable of carrying a nuclear warhead and could penetrate missile defences, giving China a significant strategic advantage. The US has called the test destabilising and provocative, saying it threatens peace and security. The incident comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries after China shot down a US weather balloon last week.
(0.497) (ID 13) (Len: 597): The US is considering military action to shoot down the Chinese satellite that has been orbiting in the Earth's atmosphere since last November. The satellite is feared to be a potential threat to US national security as it is capable of launching weapons that could destroy communication systems, satellites, and other technology used by the military. The military action is a tricky decision as there is a risk of starting an international incident, and waiting for the satellite to go out to sea would give only 12 nautical miles to take action. Tensions between the US and China are escalating.
(0.447) (ID 16) (Len: 233): Tensions between the US and China have escalated following the Chinese military's testing of a hypersonic missile. Although China expressed regret, it was not enough to save US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's trip to the country.

Note that the most similar sentence opens with "is being navigated by Chinese satellites", which summarizes this line from the original text: "U.S. AUTHORITIES BELIEVE THIS IS A SURVEILLANCE BALLOON BEING MANEUVERED BY CHINA, LIKELY USING SPY SATELLITES."

USE Large

USE Large differs from both Vertex and USE in its rankings, exhibiting stronger length affinity:

(1.000) (ID 0) (Len: 6339): THE SUSPECTED CHINESE SPY BALLOON HOVERING OVER THE U.S. WHERE IT IS NOW, AND WILL THERE BE A WINDOW TO SHOOT IT DOWN? BUT WE BEGIN WITH THE CHINESE SPY BALLOON HOVERING OVER THE U.S. TONIGHT. CHINA CLAIMING IT IS A WEATHER BALLOON THAT BLEW OFF COURSE. U.S. AUTHORITIES BELIEVE THIS IS A SURVEILLANCE BALLOON BEING MANEUVERED BY CHINA, LIKELY USING SPY SATELLITES. TODAY THE BALLOON WAS SPOTTED OVER MISSOURI. SO WHERE IS IT TONIGHT, AND WHERE U.S. AUTHORITIES BELIEVE IT'S HEADED. AMONG THE FIRST SIGHTINGS OVER BILLINGS, MONTANA. THAT INTELLIGENCE BAY HANGING BENEATH THE BALLOON, THAT'S THE SIZE OF THREE BUSSES. THE PENTAGON TONIGHT ON DISCUSSIONS OVER WHETHER OR NOT TO SHOOT IT DOWN, AND WILL THERE BE A SMALL WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY TO DO JUST THAT? WHAT WE'RE LEARNING TONIGHT. SECRETARY OF STATE ANTONY BLINKEN POSTPONING HIS HIGH-STAKES TRIP TO BEIJING, CALLING CHINA'S ACTIONS UNACCEPTABLE. SO, WILL THIS BE SHOT DOWN? IF SO, WHERE? AND WHAT CHINA IS SAYING TONIGHT. MARY BRUCE AT THE WHITE HOUSE, AND ABC'S MOLA LENGHI LEADING US OFF TONIGHT IN MONTANA. Reporter: TONIGHT, THE PENTAGON CONFIRMING THE MASSIVE CHINESE SPY BALLOON IS ON THE MOVE 60,000 FEET ABOVE THE GROUND AND HEADING EAST. THE BALLOON CONTINUES T MOVE EASTWARD AND IS CURRENTLY OVER THE CENTER OF THE CONTINENTAL UNITED STATES. WHAT THE HECK IS THAT? Reporter: A SENIOR U.S. OFFICIAL TELLS ABC NEWS THE BALLOON NOW APPEARS HEADED TOWARDS NORTH CAROLINA. ACROSS THE COUNTRY TODAY, AMERICANS WITH THEIR EYES ON THE SKIES, POSTING IMAGES LIKE THIS ONE, THE BALLOON FLOATING OVER MISSOURI. COMMERCIAL PILOTS RADIOING IN. WE GOT THAT BALLOON IN SIGHT ALSO. LOOKS LIKE IT'S WAY UP THERE, MAYBE 50,000 FEET OR SO. Reporter: THE BALLOON IS HUGE WITH A TECHNOLOGY BAY ATTACHED BELOW THAT IS ITSELF THE SIZE OF THREE BUSSES, LOADED WITH HIGH RESOLUTION CAMERAS, ACCORDING TO A SENIOR U.S. OFFICIAL, EQUIPPED WITH WHAT APPEAR TO BE SOLAR PANELS ON THE SIDE THAT COULD POWER ITS TECHNOLOGY. IT FIRST ENTERED AMERICAN AIRSPACE OVER ALASKA, THEN FLYING INTO SOUTHWEST CANADA BEFORE DIPPING DOWN OVER BILLINGS, MONTANA. THIS THING IS UP IN THE SKY. WHAT THE HECK IS THAT? THAT THING IS NOT THE MOON. ANY HELP WOULD BE APPRECIATED. Reporter: MONTANA REPUBLICAN CONGRESSMAN RYAN ZINKE WAS BLUNT, TWEETING 'SHOOT. IT. DOWN.' THE PENTAGON TODAY SAYIG THAT OPTION WAS CONSIDERED AND REJECTED, FOR NOW. WE ASSESSED THAT CURRENTLY IT DOES NOT POSE A PHYSICAL OR MILITARY RISK TO PEOPLE ON THE GROUND. FOR NOW WE ARE CONTINUING TO MONITOR AND REVIEW OPTIONS. Reporter: THE WHITE HOUSE TODAY SAYING PRESIDENT BIDEN AGREED WITH THE PENTAGON'S STRONG RECOMMENDATION. THE RISKS INVOLVED WITH SHOOTING DOWN THE BALLOON JUST TOO GREAT. ANY POTENTIAL DEBRIS FIELD WOULD BE SIGNIFICANT AND POTENTIALLY CAUSE CIVILIAN INJURIES OR DEATHS OR SIGNIFICANT PROPERTY DAMAGE. Reporter: FOR ITS PART, CHINA INSISTING TODAY THE BALLOON IS NOT A SPY VESSEL AT ALL BUT A CIVILIAN AIRSHIP USED FOR RESEARCH, MAINLY METEOROLOGICAL PURPOSES. THE PENTAGON FLATLY REJEC
(0.688) (ID 9) (Len: 2047): A Chinese surveillance balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The balloon was first spotted over Alaska on January 28, 2023, and it then flew over Canada and into the United States. It was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The Pentagon says the balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, including high-resolution cameras, radar, and satellite communications equipment. The Pentagon believes the balloon was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The Chinese government says the balloon was on a civilian mission to study the atmosphere. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government could retaliate by shooting down a US surveillance balloon, or it could take other measures to pressure the United States. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
(0.686) (ID 5) (Len: 1919): A Chinese spy balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The balloon was first spotted over Alaska on January 28, 2023, and it flew over the Canadian Rockies and into the United States. It was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, including high-resolution cameras, radar, and satellite communications equipment. The Pentagon believes that the balloon was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The United States has said that the incident was a 'serious violation' of international law. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The Pentagon has said that it is reviewing its air defense procedures.
(0.683) (ID 6) (Len: 1912): A Chinese spy balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The balloon was first spotted over Alaska on January 28, 2023, and it flew over the Canadian Rockies before crossing the U.S. border and entering Montana. The balloon was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The Pentagon said that the balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, including high-resolution cameras, radar, and satellite communications equipment. The Pentagon also said that the balloon was likely being maneuvered by Chinese satellites. The Pentagon said that the decision to shoot down the balloon was made after it was determined that it posed a threat to U.S. national security. The Pentagon said that the balloon was flying in U.S. airspace without permission and that it was carrying equipment that could be used to gather intelligence on the United States. The Pentagon said that the balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean to avoid any potential casualties on the ground. The Pentagon said that the debris from the balloon would be recovered and that it would be studied to determine its origin and purpose.
(0.597) (ID 4) (Len: 1025): A large balloon, believed to be a Chinese surveillance vessel, has been flying above the United States for several days, violating US airspace and international law. The balloon is said to be the size of three buses, loaded with high-resolution cameras and equipped with what appears to be solar panels that could power its technology. The Pentagon has considered shooting it down, but the option has been rejected for now due to the potential risks of causing civilian injuries or significant property damage. The balloon is expected to linger above America for a few days, and the current thinking is to wait for it to drift over the Atlantic Ocean before shooting it down over US territorial waters to avoid ground injuries and retrieve the balloon for intelligence exploitation. President Biden has been regularly briefed on the situation, but he chose not to talk about it to avoid inflaming the situation. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned trip to Beijing has been canceled due to China's unacceptable action.
(0.583) (ID 2) (Len: 1274): A Chinese spy balloon was spotted in North American airspace on January 28, 2023. The balloon was 60,000 feet in the air and was believed to be carrying surveillance equipment. The U.S. military shot down the balloon on February 4, 2023. The Chinese government has denied that the balloon was a spy balloon, saying that it was a weather balloon that blew off course. However, the U.S. military has said that the balloon was clearly a spy balloon and that it was shot down because it posed a threat to national security. The incident has raised tensions between the U.S. and China. The U.S. has accused China of violating international law by flying the balloon in U.S. airspace. China has accused the U.S. of overreacting and of trying to provoke a conflict. The incident has also raised concerns about the growing capabilities of China's military. China has been investing heavily in its military in recent years, and the incident suggests that China is now capable of flying high-altitude balloons that can carry surveillance equipment. The incident is likely to continue to be a source of tension between the U.S. and China. The U.S. is likely to continue to accuse China of violating international law, and China is likely to continue to accuse the U.S. of overreacting.
(0.550) (ID 14) (Len: 885): A massive Chinese surveillance balloon with high-resolution cameras, the size of three buses, has been spotted hovering over the United States at an altitude of 50,000 feet. The balloon first entered US airspace over Alaska before flying over Canada and Montana. Montana Republican Congressman Ryan Zinke called for the balloon to be shot down, but the Pentagon rejected the idea, citing potential physical or military risks to people on the ground. China insisted the balloon was a civilian airship for research purposes, but the Pentagon disputed the claim, and US officials stated that it was likely being navigated by spy satellites. The balloon is expected to remain above the US for a few more days, and the US is considering shooting it down once it drifts over the Atlantic Ocean. The incident has led to the postponement of Secretary of State Antony Blinken's trip to Beijing.
(0.542) (ID 1) (Len: 848): A Chinese spy balloon was spotted over the United States on January 28, 2023. It was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
(0.539) (ID 3) (Len: 961): A Chinese spy balloon was spotted over the United States on January 28, 2023. The balloon was 60,000 feet in the air and headed east. The Pentagon confirmed the balloon's presence and said it was being monitored. The Chinese government denied that the balloon was a spy balloon and said it was a weather balloon that had blown off course. The balloon was shot down by the US military on February 4, 2023. The Chinese spy balloon was a significant event because it showed that China is capable of operating high-altitude surveillance balloons in US airspace. The balloon also raised concerns about the possibility of China using these balloons to collect intelligence on the United States. The Chinese government's denial that the balloon was a spy balloon was likely an attempt to avoid further tensions with the United States. However, the US military's decision to shoot down the balloon suggests that the United States is taking the Chinese threat seriously.
(0.537) (ID 10) (Len: 823): A huge surveillance balloon, which US officials say belongs to China, has been floating over the skies of the United States for several days, and is expected to continue for a few more. The balloon is the size of three buses, and carries high-resolution cameras as well as a technology bay equipped with what appear to be solar panels on the side. While China has claimed the balloon is not a spy vessel, the Pentagon says it is violating US airspace and international law. US officials have rejected calls to shoot the balloon down due to the risks of debris causing civilian injuries, deaths or significant property damage, but the option of shooting it down over US territorial waters is still being considered. The visit of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Beijing has been canceled as a result of the situation.
(0.536) (ID 8) (Len: 814): A Chinese surveillance balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
(0.535) (ID 12) (Len: 888): A large balloon, which the Pentagon says is being navigated by Chinese satellites, has been floating over the United States for several days. The balloon, equipped with high-resolution cameras and solar panels, was first spotted in Alaskan airspace before flying into Canada and then dipping down over Billings, Montana. China claims the balloon is being used for civilian research purposes, but the Pentagon rejects this claim and has stated that the balloon is a surveillance vessel that violates US airspace and international law. Montana Republican Congressman Ryan Zinke tweeted 'shoot it down,' but the Pentagon has rejected this option, saying it would pose too great a risk to people on the ground. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned trip to China has been canceled due to the incident. The Pentagon says the balloon is expected to linger over the US for a few more days.
(0.514) (ID 17) (Len: 779): A massive Chinese surveillance balloon, equipped with high-resolution cameras and solar panels, has been floating over the United States for several days. It first entered American airspace over Alaska, flew into southwest Canada, and dipped down over Billings, Montana. While China insists the balloon is a civilian airship used for research, the Pentagon has flatly rejected that claim, saying that it violates US airspace and international law. Congressman Ryan Zinke called for it to be shot down, but the Pentagon rejected that option due to the risks involved. Instead, they are waiting for the balloon to drift over the Atlantic Ocean and then shoot it down over US territorial waters. The White House says that President Biden has been regularly briefed on the situation.
(0.505) (ID 11) (Len: 760): The US is considering shooting down a Chinese satellite balloon that is currently hovering over the Pacific Ocean after it was launched in July 2022. The balloon, which is part of China's Beidou satellite navigation system, is causing concern in the US as it may be a new form of surveillance technology. The US is concerned that the balloon could be used to gather intelligence and track the movements of US ships and submarines, especially as it is floating near sensitive military bases. Shooting the balloon down is considered a risky option as it is close to international waters and could lead to an international incident. The US is said to be keeping communications with China open over the issue, but tensions are escalating between the two countries.
(0.484) (ID 15) (Len: 715): A huge Chinese surveillance balloon, with a technology bay attached below, has been drifting across the United States. The balloon, which is equipped with high-resolution cameras and what appear to be solar panels, entered American airspace over Alaska and then flew into southwest Canada before dipping down over Billings, Montana. Although China has claimed that the balloon is a civilian airship used for research, the Pentagon has rejected this and insists that it is a surveillance balloon violating US airspace and international law. The balloon is expected to linger above America for a few days, and the Pentagon is considering shooting it down once it reaches US territorial waters over the Atlantic Ocean.
(0.431) (ID 18) (Len: 497): The U.S. has accused China of creating a security threat by launching a missile to destroy one of its own satellites, and a Chinese space balloon is currently floating above the U.S. It is reported that the U.S. is considering military action to shoot down the balloon if necessary, although this is complicated due to the risk of civilian casualties and starting an international incident. The U.S. is keeping communications open with China, but tensions between the two countries are escalating.
(0.377) (ID 7) (Len: 593): The US has accused China of using a hypersonic missile to test its space capabilities, after China launched a rocket that orbited the Earth and then released an object that returned to Earth at hypersonic speed, evading US detection. The weapon is capable of carrying a nuclear warhead and could penetrate missile defences, giving China a significant strategic advantage. The US has called the test destabilising and provocative, saying it threatens peace and security. The incident comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries after China shot down a US weather balloon last week.
(0.299) (ID 16) (Len: 233): Tensions between the US and China have escalated following the Chinese military's testing of a hypersonic missile. Although China expressed regret, it was not enough to save US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's trip to the country.
(0.262) (ID 13) (Len: 597): The US is considering military action to shoot down the Chinese satellite that has been orbiting in the Earth's atmosphere since last November. The satellite is feared to be a potential threat to US national security as it is capable of launching weapons that could destroy communication systems, satellites, and other technology used by the military. The military action is a tricky decision as there is a risk of starting an international incident, and waiting for the satellite to go out to sea would give only 12 nautical miles to take action. Tensions between the US and China are escalating.

USE Multilingual

USE Multilingual is highly similar to Vertex and USE:

(1.000) (ID 0) (Len: 6339): THE SUSPECTED CHINESE SPY BALLOON HOVERING OVER THE U.S. WHERE IT IS NOW, AND WILL THERE BE A WINDOW TO SHOOT IT DOWN? BUT WE BEGIN WITH THE CHINESE SPY BALLOON HOVERING OVER THE U.S. TONIGHT. CHINA CLAIMING IT IS A WEATHER BALLOON THAT BLEW OFF COURSE. U.S. AUTHORITIES BELIEVE THIS IS A SURVEILLANCE BALLOON BEING MANEUVERED BY CHINA, LIKELY USING SPY SATELLITES. TODAY THE BALLOON WAS SPOTTED OVER MISSOURI. SO WHERE IS IT TONIGHT, AND WHERE U.S. AUTHORITIES BELIEVE IT'S HEADED. AMONG THE FIRST SIGHTINGS OVER BILLINGS, MONTANA. THAT INTELLIGENCE BAY HANGING BENEATH THE BALLOON, THAT'S THE SIZE OF THREE BUSSES. THE PENTAGON TONIGHT ON DISCUSSIONS OVER WHETHER OR NOT TO SHOOT IT DOWN, AND WILL THERE BE A SMALL WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY TO DO JUST THAT? WHAT WE'RE LEARNING TONIGHT. SECRETARY OF STATE ANTONY BLINKEN POSTPONING HIS HIGH-STAKES TRIP TO BEIJING, CALLING CHINA'S ACTIONS UNACCEPTABLE. SO, WILL THIS BE SHOT DOWN? IF SO, WHERE? AND WHAT CHINA IS SAYING TONIGHT. MARY BRUCE AT THE WHITE HOUSE, AND ABC'S MOLA LENGHI LEADING US OFF TONIGHT IN MONTANA. Reporter: TONIGHT, THE PENTAGON CONFIRMING THE MASSIVE CHINESE SPY BALLOON IS ON THE MOVE 60,000 FEET ABOVE THE GROUND AND HEADING EAST. THE BALLOON CONTINUES T MOVE EASTWARD AND IS CURRENTLY OVER THE CENTER OF THE CONTINENTAL UNITED STATES. WHAT THE HECK IS THAT? Reporter: A SENIOR U.S. OFFICIAL TELLS ABC NEWS THE BALLOON NOW APPEARS HEADED TOWARDS NORTH CAROLINA. ACROSS THE COUNTRY TODAY, AMERICANS WITH THEIR EYES ON THE SKIES, POSTING IMAGES LIKE THIS ONE, THE BALLOON FLOATING OVER MISSOURI. COMMERCIAL PILOTS RADIOING IN. WE GOT THAT BALLOON IN SIGHT ALSO. LOOKS LIKE IT'S WAY UP THERE, MAYBE 50,000 FEET OR SO. Reporter: THE BALLOON IS HUGE WITH A TECHNOLOGY BAY ATTACHED BELOW THAT IS ITSELF THE SIZE OF THREE BUSSES, LOADED WITH HIGH RESOLUTION CAMERAS, ACCORDING TO A SENIOR U.S. OFFICIAL, EQUIPPED WITH WHAT APPEAR TO BE SOLAR PANELS ON THE SIDE THAT COULD POWER ITS TECHNOLOGY. IT FIRST ENTERED AMERICAN AIRSPACE OVER ALASKA, THEN FLYING INTO SOUTHWEST CANADA BEFORE DIPPING DOWN OVER BILLINGS, MONTANA. THIS THING IS UP IN THE SKY. WHAT THE HECK IS THAT? THAT THING IS NOT THE MOON. ANY HELP WOULD BE APPRECIATED. Reporter: MONTANA REPUBLICAN CONGRESSMAN RYAN ZINKE WAS BLUNT, TWEETING 'SHOOT. IT. DOWN.' THE PENTAGON TODAY SAYIG THAT OPTION WAS CONSIDERED AND REJECTED, FOR NOW. WE ASSESSED THAT CURRENTLY IT DOES NOT POSE A PHYSICAL OR MILITARY RISK TO PEOPLE ON THE GROUND. FOR NOW WE ARE CONTINUING TO MONITOR AND REVIEW OPTIONS. Reporter: THE WHITE HOUSE TODAY SAYING PRESIDENT BIDEN AGREED WITH THE PENTAGON'S STRONG RECOMMENDATION. THE RISKS INVOLVED WITH SHOOTING DOWN THE BALLOON JUST TOO GREAT. ANY POTENTIAL DEBRIS FIELD WOULD BE SIGNIFICANT AND POTENTIALLY CAUSE CIVILIAN INJURIES OR DEATHS OR SIGNIFICANT PROPERTY DAMAGE. Reporter: FOR ITS PART, CHINA INSISTING TODAY THE BALLOON IS NOT A SPY VESSEL AT ALL BUT A CIVILIAN AIRSHIP USED FOR RESEARCH, MAINLY METEOROLOGICAL PURPOSES. THE PENTAGON FLATLY REJEC
(0.494) (ID 4) (Len: 1025): A large balloon, believed to be a Chinese surveillance vessel, has been flying above the United States for several days, violating US airspace and international law. The balloon is said to be the size of three buses, loaded with high-resolution cameras and equipped with what appears to be solar panels that could power its technology. The Pentagon has considered shooting it down, but the option has been rejected for now due to the potential risks of causing civilian injuries or significant property damage. The balloon is expected to linger above America for a few days, and the current thinking is to wait for it to drift over the Atlantic Ocean before shooting it down over US territorial waters to avoid ground injuries and retrieve the balloon for intelligence exploitation. President Biden has been regularly briefed on the situation, but he chose not to talk about it to avoid inflaming the situation. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned trip to Beijing has been canceled due to China's unacceptable action.
(0.457) (ID 12) (Len: 888): A large balloon, which the Pentagon says is being navigated by Chinese satellites, has been floating over the United States for several days. The balloon, equipped with high-resolution cameras and solar panels, was first spotted in Alaskan airspace before flying into Canada and then dipping down over Billings, Montana. China claims the balloon is being used for civilian research purposes, but the Pentagon rejects this claim and has stated that the balloon is a surveillance vessel that violates US airspace and international law. Montana Republican Congressman Ryan Zinke tweeted 'shoot it down,' but the Pentagon has rejected this option, saying it would pose too great a risk to people on the ground. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned trip to China has been canceled due to the incident. The Pentagon says the balloon is expected to linger over the US for a few more days.
(0.452) (ID 8) (Len: 814): A Chinese surveillance balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
(0.447) (ID 17) (Len: 779): A massive Chinese surveillance balloon, equipped with high-resolution cameras and solar panels, has been floating over the United States for several days. It first entered American airspace over Alaska, flew into southwest Canada, and dipped down over Billings, Montana. While China insists the balloon is a civilian airship used for research, the Pentagon has flatly rejected that claim, saying that it violates US airspace and international law. Congressman Ryan Zinke called for it to be shot down, but the Pentagon rejected that option due to the risks involved. Instead, they are waiting for the balloon to drift over the Atlantic Ocean and then shoot it down over US territorial waters. The White House says that President Biden has been regularly briefed on the situation.
(0.444) (ID 10) (Len: 823): A huge surveillance balloon, which US officials say belongs to China, has been floating over the skies of the United States for several days, and is expected to continue for a few more. The balloon is the size of three buses, and carries high-resolution cameras as well as a technology bay equipped with what appear to be solar panels on the side. While China has claimed the balloon is not a spy vessel, the Pentagon says it is violating US airspace and international law. US officials have rejected calls to shoot the balloon down due to the risks of debris causing civilian injuries, deaths or significant property damage, but the option of shooting it down over US territorial waters is still being considered. The visit of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Beijing has been canceled as a result of the situation.
(0.443) (ID 1) (Len: 848): A Chinese spy balloon was spotted over the United States on January 28, 2023. It was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
(0.442) (ID 9) (Len: 2047): A Chinese surveillance balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The balloon was first spotted over Alaska on January 28, 2023, and it then flew over Canada and into the United States. It was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The Pentagon says the balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, including high-resolution cameras, radar, and satellite communications equipment. The Pentagon believes the balloon was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The Chinese government says the balloon was on a civilian mission to study the atmosphere. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government could retaliate by shooting down a US surveillance balloon, or it could take other measures to pressure the United States. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
(0.431) (ID 5) (Len: 1919): A Chinese spy balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The balloon was first spotted over Alaska on January 28, 2023, and it flew over the Canadian Rockies and into the United States. It was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, including high-resolution cameras, radar, and satellite communications equipment. The Pentagon believes that the balloon was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The United States has said that the incident was a 'serious violation' of international law. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The Pentagon has said that it is reviewing its air defense procedures.
(0.430) (ID 14) (Len: 885): A massive Chinese surveillance balloon with high-resolution cameras, the size of three buses, has been spotted hovering over the United States at an altitude of 50,000 feet. The balloon first entered US airspace over Alaska before flying over Canada and Montana. Montana Republican Congressman Ryan Zinke called for the balloon to be shot down, but the Pentagon rejected the idea, citing potential physical or military risks to people on the ground. China insisted the balloon was a civilian airship for research purposes, but the Pentagon disputed the claim, and US officials stated that it was likely being navigated by spy satellites. The balloon is expected to remain above the US for a few more days, and the US is considering shooting it down once it drifts over the Atlantic Ocean. The incident has led to the postponement of Secretary of State Antony Blinken's trip to Beijing.
(0.422) (ID 18) (Len: 497): The U.S. has accused China of creating a security threat by launching a missile to destroy one of its own satellites, and a Chinese space balloon is currently floating above the U.S. It is reported that the U.S. is considering military action to shoot down the balloon if necessary, although this is complicated due to the risk of civilian casualties and starting an international incident. The U.S. is keeping communications open with China, but tensions between the two countries are escalating.
(0.419) (ID 11) (Len: 760): The US is considering shooting down a Chinese satellite balloon that is currently hovering over the Pacific Ocean after it was launched in July 2022. The balloon, which is part of China's Beidou satellite navigation system, is causing concern in the US as it may be a new form of surveillance technology. The US is concerned that the balloon could be used to gather intelligence and track the movements of US ships and submarines, especially as it is floating near sensitive military bases. Shooting the balloon down is considered a risky option as it is close to international waters and could lead to an international incident. The US is said to be keeping communications with China open over the issue, but tensions are escalating between the two countries.
(0.404) (ID 15) (Len: 715): A huge Chinese surveillance balloon, with a technology bay attached below, has been drifting across the United States. The balloon, which is equipped with high-resolution cameras and what appear to be solar panels, entered American airspace over Alaska and then flew into southwest Canada before dipping down over Billings, Montana. Although China has claimed that the balloon is a civilian airship used for research, the Pentagon has rejected this and insists that it is a surveillance balloon violating US airspace and international law. The balloon is expected to linger above America for a few days, and the Pentagon is considering shooting it down once it reaches US territorial waters over the Atlantic Ocean.
(0.402) (ID 6) (Len: 1912): A Chinese spy balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The balloon was first spotted over Alaska on January 28, 2023, and it flew over the Canadian Rockies before crossing the U.S. border and entering Montana. The balloon was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The Pentagon said that the balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, including high-resolution cameras, radar, and satellite communications equipment. The Pentagon also said that the balloon was likely being maneuvered by Chinese satellites. The Pentagon said that the decision to shoot down the balloon was made after it was determined that it posed a threat to U.S. national security. The Pentagon said that the balloon was flying in U.S. airspace without permission and that it was carrying equipment that could be used to gather intelligence on the United States. The Pentagon said that the balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean to avoid any potential casualties on the ground. The Pentagon said that the debris from the balloon would be recovered and that it would be studied to determine its origin and purpose.
(0.392) (ID 7) (Len: 593): The US has accused China of using a hypersonic missile to test its space capabilities, after China launched a rocket that orbited the Earth and then released an object that returned to Earth at hypersonic speed, evading US detection. The weapon is capable of carrying a nuclear warhead and could penetrate missile defences, giving China a significant strategic advantage. The US has called the test destabilising and provocative, saying it threatens peace and security. The incident comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries after China shot down a US weather balloon last week.
(0.383) (ID 2) (Len: 1274): A Chinese spy balloon was spotted in North American airspace on January 28, 2023. The balloon was 60,000 feet in the air and was believed to be carrying surveillance equipment. The U.S. military shot down the balloon on February 4, 2023. The Chinese government has denied that the balloon was a spy balloon, saying that it was a weather balloon that blew off course. However, the U.S. military has said that the balloon was clearly a spy balloon and that it was shot down because it posed a threat to national security. The incident has raised tensions between the U.S. and China. The U.S. has accused China of violating international law by flying the balloon in U.S. airspace. China has accused the U.S. of overreacting and of trying to provoke a conflict. The incident has also raised concerns about the growing capabilities of China's military. China has been investing heavily in its military in recent years, and the incident suggests that China is now capable of flying high-altitude balloons that can carry surveillance equipment. The incident is likely to continue to be a source of tension between the U.S. and China. The U.S. is likely to continue to accuse China of violating international law, and China is likely to continue to accuse the U.S. of overreacting.
(0.374) (ID 3) (Len: 961): A Chinese spy balloon was spotted over the United States on January 28, 2023. The balloon was 60,000 feet in the air and headed east. The Pentagon confirmed the balloon's presence and said it was being monitored. The Chinese government denied that the balloon was a spy balloon and said it was a weather balloon that had blown off course. The balloon was shot down by the US military on February 4, 2023. The Chinese spy balloon was a significant event because it showed that China is capable of operating high-altitude surveillance balloons in US airspace. The balloon also raised concerns about the possibility of China using these balloons to collect intelligence on the United States. The Chinese government's denial that the balloon was a spy balloon was likely an attempt to avoid further tensions with the United States. However, the US military's decision to shoot down the balloon suggests that the United States is taking the Chinese threat seriously.
(0.360) (ID 13) (Len: 597): The US is considering military action to shoot down the Chinese satellite that has been orbiting in the Earth's atmosphere since last November. The satellite is feared to be a potential threat to US national security as it is capable of launching weapons that could destroy communication systems, satellites, and other technology used by the military. The military action is a tricky decision as there is a risk of starting an international incident, and waiting for the satellite to go out to sea would give only 12 nautical miles to take action. Tensions between the US and China are escalating.
(0.350) (ID 16) (Len: 233): Tensions between the US and China have escalated following the Chinese military's testing of a hypersonic missile. Although China expressed regret, it was not enough to save US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's trip to the country.

USE Multilingual Large

USE Multilingual Large is more similar to USE Large:

(1.000) (ID 0) (Len: 6339): THE SUSPECTED CHINESE SPY BALLOON HOVERING OVER THE U.S. WHERE IT IS NOW, AND WILL THERE BE A WINDOW TO SHOOT IT DOWN? BUT WE BEGIN WITH THE CHINESE SPY BALLOON HOVERING OVER THE U.S. TONIGHT. CHINA CLAIMING IT IS A WEATHER BALLOON THAT BLEW OFF COURSE. U.S. AUTHORITIES BELIEVE THIS IS A SURVEILLANCE BALLOON BEING MANEUVERED BY CHINA, LIKELY USING SPY SATELLITES. TODAY THE BALLOON WAS SPOTTED OVER MISSOURI. SO WHERE IS IT TONIGHT, AND WHERE U.S. AUTHORITIES BELIEVE IT'S HEADED. AMONG THE FIRST SIGHTINGS OVER BILLINGS, MONTANA. THAT INTELLIGENCE BAY HANGING BENEATH THE BALLOON, THAT'S THE SIZE OF THREE BUSSES. THE PENTAGON TONIGHT ON DISCUSSIONS OVER WHETHER OR NOT TO SHOOT IT DOWN, AND WILL THERE BE A SMALL WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY TO DO JUST THAT? WHAT WE'RE LEARNING TONIGHT. SECRETARY OF STATE ANTONY BLINKEN POSTPONING HIS HIGH-STAKES TRIP TO BEIJING, CALLING CHINA'S ACTIONS UNACCEPTABLE. SO, WILL THIS BE SHOT DOWN? IF SO, WHERE? AND WHAT CHINA IS SAYING TONIGHT. MARY BRUCE AT THE WHITE HOUSE, AND ABC'S MOLA LENGHI LEADING US OFF TONIGHT IN MONTANA. Reporter: TONIGHT, THE PENTAGON CONFIRMING THE MASSIVE CHINESE SPY BALLOON IS ON THE MOVE 60,000 FEET ABOVE THE GROUND AND HEADING EAST. THE BALLOON CONTINUES T MOVE EASTWARD AND IS CURRENTLY OVER THE CENTER OF THE CONTINENTAL UNITED STATES. WHAT THE HECK IS THAT? Reporter: A SENIOR U.S. OFFICIAL TELLS ABC NEWS THE BALLOON NOW APPEARS HEADED TOWARDS NORTH CAROLINA. ACROSS THE COUNTRY TODAY, AMERICANS WITH THEIR EYES ON THE SKIES, POSTING IMAGES LIKE THIS ONE, THE BALLOON FLOATING OVER MISSOURI. COMMERCIAL PILOTS RADIOING IN. WE GOT THAT BALLOON IN SIGHT ALSO. LOOKS LIKE IT'S WAY UP THERE, MAYBE 50,000 FEET OR SO. Reporter: THE BALLOON IS HUGE WITH A TECHNOLOGY BAY ATTACHED BELOW THAT IS ITSELF THE SIZE OF THREE BUSSES, LOADED WITH HIGH RESOLUTION CAMERAS, ACCORDING TO A SENIOR U.S. OFFICIAL, EQUIPPED WITH WHAT APPEAR TO BE SOLAR PANELS ON THE SIDE THAT COULD POWER ITS TECHNOLOGY. IT FIRST ENTERED AMERICAN AIRSPACE OVER ALASKA, THEN FLYING INTO SOUTHWEST CANADA BEFORE DIPPING DOWN OVER BILLINGS, MONTANA. THIS THING IS UP IN THE SKY. WHAT THE HECK IS THAT? THAT THING IS NOT THE MOON. ANY HELP WOULD BE APPRECIATED. Reporter: MONTANA REPUBLICAN CONGRESSMAN RYAN ZINKE WAS BLUNT, TWEETING 'SHOOT. IT. DOWN.' THE PENTAGON TODAY SAYIG THAT OPTION WAS CONSIDERED AND REJECTED, FOR NOW. WE ASSESSED THAT CURRENTLY IT DOES NOT POSE A PHYSICAL OR MILITARY RISK TO PEOPLE ON THE GROUND. FOR NOW WE ARE CONTINUING TO MONITOR AND REVIEW OPTIONS. Reporter: THE WHITE HOUSE TODAY SAYING PRESIDENT BIDEN AGREED WITH THE PENTAGON'S STRONG RECOMMENDATION. THE RISKS INVOLVED WITH SHOOTING DOWN THE BALLOON JUST TOO GREAT. ANY POTENTIAL DEBRIS FIELD WOULD BE SIGNIFICANT AND POTENTIALLY CAUSE CIVILIAN INJURIES OR DEATHS OR SIGNIFICANT PROPERTY DAMAGE. Reporter: FOR ITS PART, CHINA INSISTING TODAY THE BALLOON IS NOT A SPY VESSEL AT ALL BUT A CIVILIAN AIRSHIP USED FOR RESEARCH, MAINLY METEOROLOGICAL PURPOSES. THE PENTAGON FLATLY REJEC
(0.182) (ID 2) (Len: 1274): A Chinese spy balloon was spotted in North American airspace on January 28, 2023. The balloon was 60,000 feet in the air and was believed to be carrying surveillance equipment. The U.S. military shot down the balloon on February 4, 2023. The Chinese government has denied that the balloon was a spy balloon, saying that it was a weather balloon that blew off course. However, the U.S. military has said that the balloon was clearly a spy balloon and that it was shot down because it posed a threat to national security. The incident has raised tensions between the U.S. and China. The U.S. has accused China of violating international law by flying the balloon in U.S. airspace. China has accused the U.S. of overreacting and of trying to provoke a conflict. The incident has also raised concerns about the growing capabilities of China's military. China has been investing heavily in its military in recent years, and the incident suggests that China is now capable of flying high-altitude balloons that can carry surveillance equipment. The incident is likely to continue to be a source of tension between the U.S. and China. The U.S. is likely to continue to accuse China of violating international law, and China is likely to continue to accuse the U.S. of overreacting.
(0.166) (ID 6) (Len: 1912): A Chinese spy balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The balloon was first spotted over Alaska on January 28, 2023, and it flew over the Canadian Rockies before crossing the U.S. border and entering Montana. The balloon was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The Pentagon said that the balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, including high-resolution cameras, radar, and satellite communications equipment. The Pentagon also said that the balloon was likely being maneuvered by Chinese satellites. The Pentagon said that the decision to shoot down the balloon was made after it was determined that it posed a threat to U.S. national security. The Pentagon said that the balloon was flying in U.S. airspace without permission and that it was carrying equipment that could be used to gather intelligence on the United States. The Pentagon said that the balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean to avoid any potential casualties on the ground. The Pentagon said that the debris from the balloon would be recovered and that it would be studied to determine its origin and purpose.
(0.156) (ID 5) (Len: 1919): A Chinese spy balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The balloon was first spotted over Alaska on January 28, 2023, and it flew over the Canadian Rockies and into the United States. It was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, including high-resolution cameras, radar, and satellite communications equipment. The Pentagon believes that the balloon was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The United States has said that the incident was a 'serious violation' of international law. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The Pentagon has said that it is reviewing its air defense procedures.
(0.150) (ID 9) (Len: 2047): A Chinese surveillance balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The balloon was first spotted over Alaska on January 28, 2023, and it then flew over Canada and into the United States. It was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The Pentagon says the balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, including high-resolution cameras, radar, and satellite communications equipment. The Pentagon believes the balloon was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The Chinese government says the balloon was on a civilian mission to study the atmosphere. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government could retaliate by shooting down a US surveillance balloon, or it could take other measures to pressure the United States. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
(0.130) (ID 3) (Len: 961): A Chinese spy balloon was spotted over the United States on January 28, 2023. The balloon was 60,000 feet in the air and headed east. The Pentagon confirmed the balloon's presence and said it was being monitored. The Chinese government denied that the balloon was a spy balloon and said it was a weather balloon that had blown off course. The balloon was shot down by the US military on February 4, 2023. The Chinese spy balloon was a significant event because it showed that China is capable of operating high-altitude surveillance balloons in US airspace. The balloon also raised concerns about the possibility of China using these balloons to collect intelligence on the United States. The Chinese government's denial that the balloon was a spy balloon was likely an attempt to avoid further tensions with the United States. However, the US military's decision to shoot down the balloon suggests that the United States is taking the Chinese threat seriously.
(0.117) (ID 17) (Len: 779): A massive Chinese surveillance balloon, equipped with high-resolution cameras and solar panels, has been floating over the United States for several days. It first entered American airspace over Alaska, flew into southwest Canada, and dipped down over Billings, Montana. While China insists the balloon is a civilian airship used for research, the Pentagon has flatly rejected that claim, saying that it violates US airspace and international law. Congressman Ryan Zinke called for it to be shot down, but the Pentagon rejected that option due to the risks involved. Instead, they are waiting for the balloon to drift over the Atlantic Ocean and then shoot it down over US territorial waters. The White House says that President Biden has been regularly briefed on the situation.
(0.116) (ID 14) (Len: 885): A massive Chinese surveillance balloon with high-resolution cameras, the size of three buses, has been spotted hovering over the United States at an altitude of 50,000 feet. The balloon first entered US airspace over Alaska before flying over Canada and Montana. Montana Republican Congressman Ryan Zinke called for the balloon to be shot down, but the Pentagon rejected the idea, citing potential physical or military risks to people on the ground. China insisted the balloon was a civilian airship for research purposes, but the Pentagon disputed the claim, and US officials stated that it was likely being navigated by spy satellites. The balloon is expected to remain above the US for a few more days, and the US is considering shooting it down once it drifts over the Atlantic Ocean. The incident has led to the postponement of Secretary of State Antony Blinken's trip to Beijing.
(0.112) (ID 12) (Len: 888): A large balloon, which the Pentagon says is being navigated by Chinese satellites, has been floating over the United States for several days. The balloon, equipped with high-resolution cameras and solar panels, was first spotted in Alaskan airspace before flying into Canada and then dipping down over Billings, Montana. China claims the balloon is being used for civilian research purposes, but the Pentagon rejects this claim and has stated that the balloon is a surveillance vessel that violates US airspace and international law. Montana Republican Congressman Ryan Zinke tweeted 'shoot it down,' but the Pentagon has rejected this option, saying it would pose too great a risk to people on the ground. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned trip to China has been canceled due to the incident. The Pentagon says the balloon is expected to linger over the US for a few more days.
(0.109) (ID 1) (Len: 848): A Chinese spy balloon was spotted over the United States on January 28, 2023. It was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
(0.104) (ID 10) (Len: 823): A huge surveillance balloon, which US officials say belongs to China, has been floating over the skies of the United States for several days, and is expected to continue for a few more. The balloon is the size of three buses, and carries high-resolution cameras as well as a technology bay equipped with what appear to be solar panels on the side. While China has claimed the balloon is not a spy vessel, the Pentagon says it is violating US airspace and international law. US officials have rejected calls to shoot the balloon down due to the risks of debris causing civilian injuries, deaths or significant property damage, but the option of shooting it down over US territorial waters is still being considered. The visit of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Beijing has been canceled as a result of the situation.
(0.100) (ID 15) (Len: 715): A huge Chinese surveillance balloon, with a technology bay attached below, has been drifting across the United States. The balloon, which is equipped with high-resolution cameras and what appear to be solar panels, entered American airspace over Alaska and then flew into southwest Canada before dipping down over Billings, Montana. Although China has claimed that the balloon is a civilian airship used for research, the Pentagon has rejected this and insists that it is a surveillance balloon violating US airspace and international law. The balloon is expected to linger above America for a few days, and the Pentagon is considering shooting it down once it reaches US territorial waters over the Atlantic Ocean.
(0.094) (ID 4) (Len: 1025): A large balloon, believed to be a Chinese surveillance vessel, has been flying above the United States for several days, violating US airspace and international law. The balloon is said to be the size of three buses, loaded with high-resolution cameras and equipped with what appears to be solar panels that could power its technology. The Pentagon has considered shooting it down, but the option has been rejected for now due to the potential risks of causing civilian injuries or significant property damage. The balloon is expected to linger above America for a few days, and the current thinking is to wait for it to drift over the Atlantic Ocean before shooting it down over US territorial waters to avoid ground injuries and retrieve the balloon for intelligence exploitation. President Biden has been regularly briefed on the situation, but he chose not to talk about it to avoid inflaming the situation. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned trip to Beijing has been canceled due to China's unacceptable action.
(0.079) (ID 8) (Len: 814): A Chinese surveillance balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
(0.074) (ID 11) (Len: 760): The US is considering shooting down a Chinese satellite balloon that is currently hovering over the Pacific Ocean after it was launched in July 2022. The balloon, which is part of China's Beidou satellite navigation system, is causing concern in the US as it may be a new form of surveillance technology. The US is concerned that the balloon could be used to gather intelligence and track the movements of US ships and submarines, especially as it is floating near sensitive military bases. Shooting the balloon down is considered a risky option as it is close to international waters and could lead to an international incident. The US is said to be keeping communications with China open over the issue, but tensions are escalating between the two countries.
(0.069) (ID 18) (Len: 497): The U.S. has accused China of creating a security threat by launching a missile to destroy one of its own satellites, and a Chinese space balloon is currently floating above the U.S. It is reported that the U.S. is considering military action to shoot down the balloon if necessary, although this is complicated due to the risk of civilian casualties and starting an international incident. The U.S. is keeping communications open with China, but tensions between the two countries are escalating.
(0.033) (ID 7) (Len: 593): The US has accused China of using a hypersonic missile to test its space capabilities, after China launched a rocket that orbited the Earth and then released an object that returned to Earth at hypersonic speed, evading US detection. The weapon is capable of carrying a nuclear warhead and could penetrate missile defences, giving China a significant strategic advantage. The US has called the test destabilising and provocative, saying it threatens peace and security. The incident comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries after China shot down a US weather balloon last week.
(0.029) (ID 13) (Len: 597): The US is considering military action to shoot down the Chinese satellite that has been orbiting in the Earth's atmosphere since last November. The satellite is feared to be a potential threat to US national security as it is capable of launching weapons that could destroy communication systems, satellites, and other technology used by the military. The military action is a tricky decision as there is a risk of starting an international incident, and waiting for the satellite to go out to sea would give only 12 nautical miles to take action. Tensions between the US and China are escalating.
(-0.041) (ID 16) (Len: 233): Tensions between the US and China have escalated following the Chinese military's testing of a hypersonic missile. Although China expressed regret, it was not enough to save US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's trip to the country.

LaBSE

LaBSE yields results more similar to the Large models but also distinct:

(1.000) (ID 0) (Len: 6339): THE SUSPECTED CHINESE SPY BALLOON HOVERING OVER THE U.S. WHERE IT IS NOW, AND WILL THERE BE A WINDOW TO SHOOT IT DOWN? BUT WE BEGIN WITH THE CHINESE SPY BALLOON HOVERING OVER THE U.S. TONIGHT. CHINA CLAIMING IT IS A WEATHER BALLOON THAT BLEW OFF COURSE. U.S. AUTHORITIES BELIEVE THIS IS A SURVEILLANCE BALLOON BEING MANEUVERED BY CHINA, LIKELY USING SPY SATELLITES. TODAY THE BALLOON WAS SPOTTED OVER MISSOURI. SO WHERE IS IT TONIGHT, AND WHERE U.S. AUTHORITIES BELIEVE IT'S HEADED. AMONG THE FIRST SIGHTINGS OVER BILLINGS, MONTANA. THAT INTELLIGENCE BAY HANGING BENEATH THE BALLOON, THAT'S THE SIZE OF THREE BUSSES. THE PENTAGON TONIGHT ON DISCUSSIONS OVER WHETHER OR NOT TO SHOOT IT DOWN, AND WILL THERE BE A SMALL WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY TO DO JUST THAT? WHAT WE'RE LEARNING TONIGHT. SECRETARY OF STATE ANTONY BLINKEN POSTPONING HIS HIGH-STAKES TRIP TO BEIJING, CALLING CHINA'S ACTIONS UNACCEPTABLE. SO, WILL THIS BE SHOT DOWN? IF SO, WHERE? AND WHAT CHINA IS SAYING TONIGHT. MARY BRUCE AT THE WHITE HOUSE, AND ABC'S MOLA LENGHI LEADING US OFF TONIGHT IN MONTANA. Reporter: TONIGHT, THE PENTAGON CONFIRMING THE MASSIVE CHINESE SPY BALLOON IS ON THE MOVE 60,000 FEET ABOVE THE GROUND AND HEADING EAST. THE BALLOON CONTINUES T MOVE EASTWARD AND IS CURRENTLY OVER THE CENTER OF THE CONTINENTAL UNITED STATES. WHAT THE HECK IS THAT? Reporter: A SENIOR U.S. OFFICIAL TELLS ABC NEWS THE BALLOON NOW APPEARS HEADED TOWARDS NORTH CAROLINA. ACROSS THE COUNTRY TODAY, AMERICANS WITH THEIR EYES ON THE SKIES, POSTING IMAGES LIKE THIS ONE, THE BALLOON FLOATING OVER MISSOURI. COMMERCIAL PILOTS RADIOING IN. WE GOT THAT BALLOON IN SIGHT ALSO. LOOKS LIKE IT'S WAY UP THERE, MAYBE 50,000 FEET OR SO. Reporter: THE BALLOON IS HUGE WITH A TECHNOLOGY BAY ATTACHED BELOW THAT IS ITSELF THE SIZE OF THREE BUSSES, LOADED WITH HIGH RESOLUTION CAMERAS, ACCORDING TO A SENIOR U.S. OFFICIAL, EQUIPPED WITH WHAT APPEAR TO BE SOLAR PANELS ON THE SIDE THAT COULD POWER ITS TECHNOLOGY. IT FIRST ENTERED AMERICAN AIRSPACE OVER ALASKA, THEN FLYING INTO SOUTHWEST CANADA BEFORE DIPPING DOWN OVER BILLINGS, MONTANA. THIS THING IS UP IN THE SKY. WHAT THE HECK IS THAT? THAT THING IS NOT THE MOON. ANY HELP WOULD BE APPRECIATED. Reporter: MONTANA REPUBLICAN CONGRESSMAN RYAN ZINKE WAS BLUNT, TWEETING 'SHOOT. IT. DOWN.' THE PENTAGON TODAY SAYIG THAT OPTION WAS CONSIDERED AND REJECTED, FOR NOW. WE ASSESSED THAT CURRENTLY IT DOES NOT POSE A PHYSICAL OR MILITARY RISK TO PEOPLE ON THE GROUND. FOR NOW WE ARE CONTINUING TO MONITOR AND REVIEW OPTIONS. Reporter: THE WHITE HOUSE TODAY SAYING PRESIDENT BIDEN AGREED WITH THE PENTAGON'S STRONG RECOMMENDATION. THE RISKS INVOLVED WITH SHOOTING DOWN THE BALLOON JUST TOO GREAT. ANY POTENTIAL DEBRIS FIELD WOULD BE SIGNIFICANT AND POTENTIALLY CAUSE CIVILIAN INJURIES OR DEATHS OR SIGNIFICANT PROPERTY DAMAGE. Reporter: FOR ITS PART, CHINA INSISTING TODAY THE BALLOON IS NOT A SPY VESSEL AT ALL BUT A CIVILIAN AIRSHIP USED FOR RESEARCH, MAINLY METEOROLOGICAL PURPOSES. THE PENTAGON FLATLY REJEC
(0.675) (ID 10) (Len: 823): A huge surveillance balloon, which US officials say belongs to China, has been floating over the skies of the United States for several days, and is expected to continue for a few more. The balloon is the size of three buses, and carries high-resolution cameras as well as a technology bay equipped with what appear to be solar panels on the side. While China has claimed the balloon is not a spy vessel, the Pentagon says it is violating US airspace and international law. US officials have rejected calls to shoot the balloon down due to the risks of debris causing civilian injuries, deaths or significant property damage, but the option of shooting it down over US territorial waters is still being considered. The visit of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Beijing has been canceled as a result of the situation.
(0.674) (ID 2) (Len: 1274): A Chinese spy balloon was spotted in North American airspace on January 28, 2023. The balloon was 60,000 feet in the air and was believed to be carrying surveillance equipment. The U.S. military shot down the balloon on February 4, 2023. The Chinese government has denied that the balloon was a spy balloon, saying that it was a weather balloon that blew off course. However, the U.S. military has said that the balloon was clearly a spy balloon and that it was shot down because it posed a threat to national security. The incident has raised tensions between the U.S. and China. The U.S. has accused China of violating international law by flying the balloon in U.S. airspace. China has accused the U.S. of overreacting and of trying to provoke a conflict. The incident has also raised concerns about the growing capabilities of China's military. China has been investing heavily in its military in recent years, and the incident suggests that China is now capable of flying high-altitude balloons that can carry surveillance equipment. The incident is likely to continue to be a source of tension between the U.S. and China. The U.S. is likely to continue to accuse China of violating international law, and China is likely to continue to accuse the U.S. of overreacting.
(0.663) (ID 4) (Len: 1025): A large balloon, believed to be a Chinese surveillance vessel, has been flying above the United States for several days, violating US airspace and international law. The balloon is said to be the size of three buses, loaded with high-resolution cameras and equipped with what appears to be solar panels that could power its technology. The Pentagon has considered shooting it down, but the option has been rejected for now due to the potential risks of causing civilian injuries or significant property damage. The balloon is expected to linger above America for a few days, and the current thinking is to wait for it to drift over the Atlantic Ocean before shooting it down over US territorial waters to avoid ground injuries and retrieve the balloon for intelligence exploitation. President Biden has been regularly briefed on the situation, but he chose not to talk about it to avoid inflaming the situation. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned trip to Beijing has been canceled due to China's unacceptable action.
(0.655) (ID 3) (Len: 961): A Chinese spy balloon was spotted over the United States on January 28, 2023. The balloon was 60,000 feet in the air and headed east. The Pentagon confirmed the balloon's presence and said it was being monitored. The Chinese government denied that the balloon was a spy balloon and said it was a weather balloon that had blown off course. The balloon was shot down by the US military on February 4, 2023. The Chinese spy balloon was a significant event because it showed that China is capable of operating high-altitude surveillance balloons in US airspace. The balloon also raised concerns about the possibility of China using these balloons to collect intelligence on the United States. The Chinese government's denial that the balloon was a spy balloon was likely an attempt to avoid further tensions with the United States. However, the US military's decision to shoot down the balloon suggests that the United States is taking the Chinese threat seriously.
(0.649) (ID 14) (Len: 885): A massive Chinese surveillance balloon with high-resolution cameras, the size of three buses, has been spotted hovering over the United States at an altitude of 50,000 feet. The balloon first entered US airspace over Alaska before flying over Canada and Montana. Montana Republican Congressman Ryan Zinke called for the balloon to be shot down, but the Pentagon rejected the idea, citing potential physical or military risks to people on the ground. China insisted the balloon was a civilian airship for research purposes, but the Pentagon disputed the claim, and US officials stated that it was likely being navigated by spy satellites. The balloon is expected to remain above the US for a few more days, and the US is considering shooting it down once it drifts over the Atlantic Ocean. The incident has led to the postponement of Secretary of State Antony Blinken's trip to Beijing.
(0.645) (ID 1) (Len: 848): A Chinese spy balloon was spotted over the United States on January 28, 2023. It was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
(0.644) (ID 6) (Len: 1912): A Chinese spy balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The balloon was first spotted over Alaska on January 28, 2023, and it flew over the Canadian Rockies before crossing the U.S. border and entering Montana. The balloon was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The Pentagon said that the balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, including high-resolution cameras, radar, and satellite communications equipment. The Pentagon also said that the balloon was likely being maneuvered by Chinese satellites. The Pentagon said that the decision to shoot down the balloon was made after it was determined that it posed a threat to U.S. national security. The Pentagon said that the balloon was flying in U.S. airspace without permission and that it was carrying equipment that could be used to gather intelligence on the United States. The Pentagon said that the balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean to avoid any potential casualties on the ground. The Pentagon said that the debris from the balloon would be recovered and that it would be studied to determine its origin and purpose.
(0.643) (ID 8) (Len: 814): A Chinese surveillance balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
(0.642) (ID 15) (Len: 715): A huge Chinese surveillance balloon, with a technology bay attached below, has been drifting across the United States. The balloon, which is equipped with high-resolution cameras and what appear to be solar panels, entered American airspace over Alaska and then flew into southwest Canada before dipping down over Billings, Montana. Although China has claimed that the balloon is a civilian airship used for research, the Pentagon has rejected this and insists that it is a surveillance balloon violating US airspace and international law. The balloon is expected to linger above America for a few days, and the Pentagon is considering shooting it down once it reaches US territorial waters over the Atlantic Ocean.
(0.639) (ID 12) (Len: 888): A large balloon, which the Pentagon says is being navigated by Chinese satellites, has been floating over the United States for several days. The balloon, equipped with high-resolution cameras and solar panels, was first spotted in Alaskan airspace before flying into Canada and then dipping down over Billings, Montana. China claims the balloon is being used for civilian research purposes, but the Pentagon rejects this claim and has stated that the balloon is a surveillance vessel that violates US airspace and international law. Montana Republican Congressman Ryan Zinke tweeted 'shoot it down,' but the Pentagon has rejected this option, saying it would pose too great a risk to people on the ground. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned trip to China has been canceled due to the incident. The Pentagon says the balloon is expected to linger over the US for a few more days.
(0.638) (ID 9) (Len: 2047): A Chinese surveillance balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The balloon was first spotted over Alaska on January 28, 2023, and it then flew over Canada and into the United States. It was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The Pentagon says the balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, including high-resolution cameras, radar, and satellite communications equipment. The Pentagon believes the balloon was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The Chinese government says the balloon was on a civilian mission to study the atmosphere. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government could retaliate by shooting down a US surveillance balloon, or it could take other measures to pressure the United States. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
(0.635) (ID 5) (Len: 1919): A Chinese spy balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The balloon was first spotted over Alaska on January 28, 2023, and it flew over the Canadian Rockies and into the United States. It was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, including high-resolution cameras, radar, and satellite communications equipment. The Pentagon believes that the balloon was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The United States has said that the incident was a 'serious violation' of international law. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The Pentagon has said that it is reviewing its air defense procedures.
(0.628) (ID 17) (Len: 779): A massive Chinese surveillance balloon, equipped with high-resolution cameras and solar panels, has been floating over the United States for several days. It first entered American airspace over Alaska, flew into southwest Canada, and dipped down over Billings, Montana. While China insists the balloon is a civilian airship used for research, the Pentagon has flatly rejected that claim, saying that it violates US airspace and international law. Congressman Ryan Zinke called for it to be shot down, but the Pentagon rejected that option due to the risks involved. Instead, they are waiting for the balloon to drift over the Atlantic Ocean and then shoot it down over US territorial waters. The White House says that President Biden has been regularly briefed on the situation.
(0.606) (ID 18) (Len: 497): The U.S. has accused China of creating a security threat by launching a missile to destroy one of its own satellites, and a Chinese space balloon is currently floating above the U.S. It is reported that the U.S. is considering military action to shoot down the balloon if necessary, although this is complicated due to the risk of civilian casualties and starting an international incident. The U.S. is keeping communications open with China, but tensions between the two countries are escalating.
(0.604) (ID 11) (Len: 760): The US is considering shooting down a Chinese satellite balloon that is currently hovering over the Pacific Ocean after it was launched in July 2022. The balloon, which is part of China's Beidou satellite navigation system, is causing concern in the US as it may be a new form of surveillance technology. The US is concerned that the balloon could be used to gather intelligence and track the movements of US ships and submarines, especially as it is floating near sensitive military bases. Shooting the balloon down is considered a risky option as it is close to international waters and could lead to an international incident. The US is said to be keeping communications with China open over the issue, but tensions are escalating between the two countries.
(0.562) (ID 7) (Len: 593): The US has accused China of using a hypersonic missile to test its space capabilities, after China launched a rocket that orbited the Earth and then released an object that returned to Earth at hypersonic speed, evading US detection. The weapon is capable of carrying a nuclear warhead and could penetrate missile defences, giving China a significant strategic advantage. The US has called the test destabilising and provocative, saying it threatens peace and security. The incident comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries after China shot down a US weather balloon last week.
(0.560) (ID 13) (Len: 597): The US is considering military action to shoot down the Chinese satellite that has been orbiting in the Earth's atmosphere since last November. The satellite is feared to be a potential threat to US national security as it is capable of launching weapons that could destroy communication systems, satellites, and other technology used by the military. The military action is a tricky decision as there is a risk of starting an international incident, and waiting for the satellite to go out to sea would give only 12 nautical miles to take action. Tensions between the US and China are escalating.
(0.390) (ID 16) (Len: 233): Tensions between the US and China have escalated following the Chinese military's testing of a hypersonic missile. Although China expressed regret, it was not enough to save US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's trip to the country.

Model Comparison

Comparing the models, here are the passages each ranked as the most similar by each model. Note that the USE model opens with the claim that the balloon is being "navigated" by Chinese satellite, which was a claim made in the original article:

Vertex API
A large balloon, believed to be a Chinese surveillance vessel, has been flying above the United States for several days, violating US airspace and international law. The balloon is said to be the size of three buses, loaded with high-resolution cameras and equipped with what appears to be solar panels that could power its technology. The Pentagon has considered shooting it down, but the option has been rejected for now due to the potential risks of causing civilian injuries or significant property damage. The balloon is expected to linger above America for a few days, and the current thinking is to wait for it to drift over the Atlantic Ocean before shooting it down over US territorial waters to avoid ground injuries and retrieve the balloon for intelligence exploitation. President Biden has been regularly briefed on the situation, but he chose not to talk about it to avoid inflaming the situation. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned trip to Beijing has been canceled due to China's unacceptable action.

USE
A large balloon, which the Pentagon says is being navigated by Chinese satellites, has been floating over the United States for several days. The balloon, equipped with high-resolution cameras and solar panels, was first spotted in Alaskan airspace before flying into Canada and then dipping down over Billings, Montana. China claims the balloon is being used for civilian research purposes, but the Pentagon rejects this claim and has stated that the balloon is a surveillance vessel that violates US airspace and international law. Montana Republican Congressman Ryan Zinke tweeted 'shoot it down,' but the Pentagon has rejected this option, saying it would pose too great a risk to people on the ground. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned trip to China has been canceled due to the incident. The Pentagon says the balloon is expected to linger over the US for a few more days.

USE Large
A Chinese surveillance balloon was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023, after it was tracked by the Pentagon for several days. The balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, and the Pentagon believes it was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The balloon was first spotted over Alaska on January 28, 2023, and it then flew over Canada and into the United States. It was tracked by the Pentagon and eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean on February 4, 2023. The Pentagon says the balloon was carrying a payload of surveillance equipment, including high-resolution cameras, radar, and satellite communications equipment. The Pentagon believes the balloon was on a mission to gather intelligence on the United States. The Chinese government has denied any wrongdoing, and it has accused the United States of overreacting. The Chinese government says the balloon was on a civilian mission to study the atmosphere. The incident has raised tensions between the United States and China, and it is unclear how China will respond. The Chinese government could retaliate by shooting down a US surveillance balloon, or it could take other measures to pressure the United States. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the United States' air defense system. The balloon was able to travel over the United States for several days before being shot down, and it is unclear how the United States will prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.

USE Multilingual
A large balloon, believed to be a Chinese surveillance vessel, has been flying above the United States for several days, violating US airspace and international law. The balloon is said to be the size of three buses, loaded with high-resolution cameras and equipped with what appears to be solar panels that could power its technology. The Pentagon has considered shooting it down, but the option has been rejected for now due to the potential risks of causing civilian injuries or significant property damage. The balloon is expected to linger above America for a few days, and the current thinking is to wait for it to drift over the Atlantic Ocean before shooting it down over US territorial waters to avoid ground injuries and retrieve the balloon for intelligence exploitation. President Biden has been regularly briefed on the situation, but he chose not to talk about it to avoid inflaming the situation. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned trip to Beijing has been canceled due to China's unacceptable action.

USE Multilingual Large
A Chinese spy balloon was spotted in North American airspace on January 28, 2023. The balloon was 60,000 feet in the air and was believed to be carrying surveillance equipment. The U.S. military shot down the balloon on February 4, 2023. The Chinese government has denied that the balloon was a spy balloon, saying that it was a weather balloon that blew off course. However, the U.S. military has said that the balloon was clearly a spy balloon and that it was shot down because it posed a threat to national security. The incident has raised tensions between the U.S. and China. The U.S. has accused China of violating international law by flying the balloon in U.S. airspace. China has accused the U.S. of overreacting and of trying to provoke a conflict. The incident has also raised concerns about the growing capabilities of China's military. China has been investing heavily in its military in recent years, and the incident suggests that China is now capable of flying high-altitude balloons that can carry surveillance equipment. The incident is likely to continue to be a source of tension between the U.S. and China. The U.S. is likely to continue to accuse China of violating international law, and China is likely to continue to accuse the U.S. of overreacting.

LaBSE
A huge surveillance balloon, which US officials say belongs to China, has been floating over the skies of the United States for several days, and is expected to continue for a few more. The balloon is the size of three buses, and carries high-resolution cameras as well as a technology bay equipped with what appear to be solar panels on the side. While China has claimed the balloon is not a spy vessel, the Pentagon says it is violating US airspace and international law. US officials have rejected calls to shoot the balloon down due to the risks of debris causing civilian injuries, deaths or significant property damage, but the option of shooting it down over US territorial waters is still being considered. The visit of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Beijing has been canceled as a result of the situation.

And the sentences ranked least similar by each model:

Vertex API
Tensions between the US and China have escalated following the Chinese military's testing of a hypersonic missile. Although China expressed regret, it was not enough to save US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's trip to the country.

USE
Tensions between the US and China have escalated following the Chinese military's testing of a hypersonic missile. Although China expressed regret, it was not enough to save US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's trip to the country.

USE Large
The US is considering military action to shoot down the Chinese satellite that has been orbiting in the Earth's atmosphere since last November. The satellite is feared to be a potential threat to US national security as it is capable of launching weapons that could destroy communication systems, satellites, and other technology used by the military. The military action is a tricky decision as there is a risk of starting an international incident, and waiting for the satellite to go out to sea would give only 12 nautical miles to take action. Tensions between the US and China are escalating.

USE Multilingual
Tensions between the US and China have escalated following the Chinese military's testing of a hypersonic missile. Although China expressed regret, it was not enough to save US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's trip to the country.

USE Multilingual Large
Tensions between the US and China have escalated following the Chinese military's testing of a hypersonic missile. Although China expressed regret, it was not enough to save US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's trip to the country.

LaBSE
Tensions between the US and China have escalated following the Chinese military's testing of a hypersonic missile. Although China expressed regret, it was not enough to save US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's trip to the country.

While each model differs slightly, the Large models exhibit stronger length affinity in this case, while USE yields nearly identical results to Vertex. All six models are highly effective at filtering the generated passages to output a high-quality and faithful summary from the list of possible candidates.

The GDELT Project