Beijing: Beijing on Wednesday slammed the US' 'unfounded hype,' over 'so-called Chinese spies,' vowing to safeguard the 'rights and interests' of its citizens. The remarks came after the US charged two Chinese nationals for allegedly attempting to recruit US military service members on behalf of China.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning addressed the issue at a news conference in Beijing. She stated, "I am not aware of the specifics, but we have always opposed unfounded hype about so-called 'Chinese spies.'" She further emphasized that China would take necessary measures to protect the legitimate rights and interests of its citizens.

The US Justice Department announced on Tuesday that Yuance Chen, 38, and Liren 'Ryan' Lai, 39, were arrested on Friday. They are accused of conducting covert intelligence operations in the US for China's State Security Ministry. The Justice Department claims the suspects allegedly paid for classified US military information, gathered navy intelligence, and attempted to recruit service members for China.