Now you're asking that question, you might also ask why we saw more news stories days ago about this derailment in the European media than we did in the US.
The media news cycle in the US was literally staring at a balloon in the sky for days. It's as unsubtle of a distraction from real issues as it can get.
Or why we're seeing so much coverage of random "balloons" being shot over US airspace. It just feels off and convenient, even if not a downright conspiracy.