China criticized the United States as “extremely irresponsible” for what it described as “groundless suspicions” regarding information security risks associated with its drone systems, according to a statement from its commerce ministry on Tuesday.

The Chinese government expressed strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition to the U.S. investigation into its drone technology, indicating that it would closely monitor developments in this matter. Furthermore, China called on the U.S. to acknowledge the facts and to cease what it termed “erroneous practices.”

On Thursday, the U.S. Commerce Department announced that it was contemplating new regulations that could impose restrictions or a ban on Chinese drones within the United States, citing concerns related to national security.