WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has released newly declassified intelligence that she says reveals extensive U.S. government funding for more than 120 biological research laboratories in over 30 countries, including facilities in Ukraine.
The disclosure marks a significant development in the ongoing debate over overseas biological research programs, gain-of-function studies, and government transparency. Gabbard said the information was uncovered after months of reviewing intelligence community records and files.
The Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) announced the findings as part of a broader effort to increase transparency about U.S.-funded biological research programs around the world.
According to the newly declassified intelligence, the United States has funded or supported more than 120 laboratories across more than 30 countries. Some of these facilities have conducted research involving hazardous pathogens and infectious diseases.
The report highlights laboratories in Ukraine as a particular concern due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Intelligence officials previously warned that at least one U.S.-funded laboratory in Ukraine housed dangerous biological materials and could face risks from military attacks, seizure, or accidental damage during the conflict.
Gabbard said the intelligence community had identified longstanding security concerns related to several overseas facilities. She also claimed that information about the existence, locations, and funding of these laboratories had not been fully disclosed to the public.
A major focus of the newly released information involves gain-of-function research. The term refers to scientific studies that alter pathogens to better understand how diseases spread, evolve, or affect humans and animals.
Supporters argue that such research helps scientists prepare for future outbreaks and develop medical countermeasures. Critics warn that accidents involving modified pathogens could create serious public health risks. Gabbard said some U.S.-funded laboratories conducted research involving highly contagious pathogens and that oversight of certain projects remained limited.
The intelligence release follows President Donald Trump’s executive order signed on May 25, 2025. The order, known as Executive Order 14292, seeks to end federal funding for gain-of-function research around the world. Administration officials have described the policy as a step toward reducing biological risks and increasing accountability in federally funded research programs.
In a statement accompanying the release, Gabbard sharply criticized former government officials and public health leaders. She accused members of the Biden administration, national security officials, and former health officials of misleading the public about the existence of U.S.-funded laboratories overseas.
Gabbard specifically referenced former National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Director Dr. Anthony Fauci while arguing that government officials failed to provide accurate information regarding biological research programs.
“Despite the obvious potential for catastrophic global impact research on dangerous pathogens in biolabs can have, politicians, so-called health professionals like Dr. Fauci, and entities within the Biden administration’s national security team lied to the American people about the existence of U.S.-funded and supported biolabs,” Gabbard said in a statement released by ODNI.
Along with the declassification effort, Gabbard issued new guidance directing intelligence agencies to increase monitoring and information gathering on biological laboratories and related facilities overseas.
ODNI said the expanded intelligence collection has already produced additional information about clinical trials and research projects underway at some facilities.
Officials said the findings have raised questions about ethics, funding practices,s and national security implications connected to certain public health initiatives. The intelligence community will continue reviewing laboratory activities, pathogen research, and funding arrangements across multiple countries, according to the directive.
Gabbard said the administration plans to continue identifying the locations of U.S.-funded laboratories, determining what pathogens they contain, and evaluating the research conducted at those facilities. The release comes amid continuing public debate over biological research oversight, laboratory safety standards, and the role of government-funded science programs.
