China Condemns CIA Recruitment Drive as “Political Provocation”

China’s Foreign Ministry called the move a blatant act of political hostility.

Tensions between the U.S. and China have escalated once again.

Beijing is fiercely criticizing recent recruitment messages from the CIA aimed at Chinese government officials.

CIA Posts Covert Recruitment Videos on X

Last week, the CIA released a series of video messages on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), which remains banned in China.

The videos were reportedly designed to encourage Chinese officials to provide confidential information in support of the United States.

Beijing Slams Videos as “Grave Infringement”

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian didn’t mince words, labeling the CIA campaign “a serious violation of China’s national interests” and “a pure political provocation.”

He denounced the videos as further proof of America’s covert interference in China’s internal affairs.

U.S. Accused of Malicious Tactics

“The United States has long used disgraceful methods to steal secrets, meddle in domestic politics, and prop up foreign regimes,” Lin said during a press briefing on Tuesday.

“This recruitment attempt is merely the latest in a series of hostile actions.”

China Claims CIA Actions Undermine Sovereignty

Beijing has repeatedly voiced concern over U.S. intelligence operations in the region.

The latest episode adds to the perception in China that Washington is seeking to destabilize the country through espionage and information warfare.

Bounties for Alleged NSA Spies

Just last month, Chinese authorities offered monetary rewards for the capture of three alleged spies from the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA).

The individuals were accused of launching cyberattacks against the Asian Winter Games hosted in China earlier this year.

NSA in the Crosshairs

The NSA, a central U.S. intelligence agency focused on digital surveillance and cyberespionage, has become a frequent target of Chinese criticism.

The new accusations underscore how both nations increasingly see cyberspace as a battleground for influence.

Spy Games: A Two-Way Street

Both countries have a history of accusing each other of espionage.

U.S. officials have also arrested individuals in the past suspected of spying for China, highlighting the mutual distrust embedded in their strained relationship.