The Chinese government has forcefully rejected the latest espionage charges brought by the United States against two Chinese nationals, accusing Washington of weaponizing national security claims for political ends and further straining already tense bilateral relations.

In a strongly worded statement on Tuesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning denounced the accusations as “baseless” and part of a recurring pattern by the U.S. to stigmatize Chinese citizens abroad under the guise of counterintelligence operations.

“The so-called ‘Chinese spies’ narrative is a fabrication driven by ulterior political motives,” Mao told reporters during a routine briefing in Beijing. “We urge the United States to stop its slander and cease unjust harassment of Chinese nationals.”

Espionage Charges Spark Diplomatic Outcry

The U.S. Department of Justice announced earlier this week that it had indicted two Chinese nationals whose names have not yet been released publicly for allegedly attempting to recruit informants within the U.S. military and defense contracting sectors. According to federal prosecutors, the suspects engaged in covert communications with personnel holding security clearances and sought classified information related to U.S. defense systems and operations.

The DOJ claims the individuals were acting under the direction of the Chinese Ministry of State Security (MSS), China’s principal foreign intelligence agency.

“We will not tolerate foreign intelligence services targeting Americans and threatening our national security,” said U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland in a press statement. “These prosecutions make clear that espionage will be pursued and punished.”

The charges have yet to go to trial, but they add to a growing list of cases in recent years involving alleged Chinese espionage, many of which have involved industrial secrets, academic collaboration, or attempted infiltration of government agencies.

China Pushes Back: ‘Political Manipulation’

China’s response has been swift and categorical. Mao Ning reiterated that China “respects the laws and sovereignty of other nations” and does not engage in espionage operations targeting the U.S. military.

“The United States continues to use the concept of ‘national security’ as a catch-all justification to suppress Chinese citizens and businesses,” Mao said. “Such actions only damage the trust and cooperation necessary for stable bilateral relations.”

She also warned that China would take “all necessary steps” to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of its citizens, signaling potential diplomatic or legal retaliation if the individuals are not treated in accordance with international law.

Tensions Mount in U.S.-China Relations

The accusations come at a delicate time in U.S.-China relations, with tensions already elevated over Taiwan, South China Sea military operations, trade disputes, and competing influence campaigns in Africa and Latin America.

Experts Warn of Diplomatic Fallout

Analysts say while espionage charges are typically handled through quiet channels, the public nature of this indictment and China’s vehement rejection could trigger further diplomatic reprisals. Beijing may issue reciprocal travel advisories or increase scrutiny on U.S. nationals operating in China.

Already, the Chinese Foreign Ministry has summoned the U.S. ambassador for “urgent consultations,” and unofficial Chinese outlets have hinted at the possibility of countermeasures.