US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has revealed that the United States has historically provided financial support to more than 120 biological laboratories operating in over 30 countries, a disclosure that has reignited debate surrounding biosafety practices, research transparency, and government oversight.
The announcement, based on newly declassified records, has led to a significant shift in federal policy under the Trump administration. According to statements issued by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), several of these facilities conducted research involving highly infectious and potentially dangerous pathogens. Concerns have been raised regarding the extent of oversight governing certain forms of scientific work, including gain-of-function studies.
Gabbard stated that intelligence agencies would continue collaborating with relevant government departments to identify the locations of these laboratories, determine the nature of the pathogens housed within them, and evaluate the potential risks associated with ongoing research activities. She emphasized that efforts would focus on preventing scientific practices deemed capable of threatening public health both domestically and internationally.
The declassified documents reportedly indicate that more than 40 laboratories located in Ukraine handled biological materials connected to former Soviet-era programs. These facilities were said to have conducted studies involving especially dangerous pathogens, including anthrax, Ebola, MERS, SARS, and plague-related organisms.
In her remarks, Gabbard criticized previous government officials and public health authorities, alleging that information concerning US-backed laboratories overseas had not been adequately disclosed to the public. She argued that individuals who attempted to draw attention to these issues had faced opposition despite the broader implications such research could have for global safety.
Among the examples cited in the report was the Kherson Diagnostic Laboratory, which reportedly received approximately $1.7 million in funding while documentation concerning authorization to work with certain pathogens remained incomplete. The findings have intensified calls for stronger accountability mechanisms and improved monitoring procedures.
Following the release of the information, President Donald Trump announced the termination of federal funding for gain-of-function research conducted internationally. The administration has framed the decision as part of a broader effort to reduce biological risks and strengthen national security safeguards.
Gabbard has also directed the Intelligence Community to prioritize gathering information on overseas biological facilities. According to the ODNI, this expanded review process is already uncovering additional details regarding activities at some of these sites, including clinical trials that officials claim may warrant further ethical, financial, and security assessments. The administration maintains that increased transparency and oversight are essential to preventing potential threats linked to high-risk biological research.
