Biden's "Dictator" Label for Xi Jinping Sparks Tensions Between US and China.

President Joe Biden referred to Chinese President Xi Jinping as a "dictator" during a Democratic fundraiser in California, drawing a sharp rebuke from China and threatening to undermine his administration's efforts to "thaw" intensifying relations. Biden made the remark while discussing his decision in February to order the military to shoot down a Chinese balloon suspected to be conducting surveillance of U.S military sites. China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning called Biden's comments "extremely absurd and irresponsible."