Tulsi Gabbard Releases Declassified Records on U.S. Funding of Biological Laboratories

Tulsi Gabbard, Director of National Intelligence, has released declassified records detailing U.S. funding for over 120 biological laboratories in more than 30 countries. Gabbard argues that these documents validate concerns previously dismissed as misinformation regarding U.S.-funded biolabs, particularly in Ukraine. The records indicate that over 40 laboratories in Ukraine received U.S. funding and contained collections of dangerous pathogens, some dating back to the Soviet era. They also reveal that Ukrainian scientists received training to handle hazardous pathogens and were involved in programs focused on dangerous diseases. The documents list various pathogens studied or stored in the laboratory network, including anthrax, tuberculosis, and Ebola. Additionally, they detail U.S.-funded construction and upgrades at laboratories in Ukraine, with expenditures ranging from approximately $1.7 million to $3.5 million on individual projects. Gabbard stated that the documents show the public was not fully informed about U.S.-backed biological research programs overseas, while critics argue that these facilities were part of public health and threat-reduction efforts. The declassification is expected to reignite discussions on government transparency and the scope of U.S.-funded biological research.