Former US Intel Chief Gabbard Claims Documents Show US-Backed Biological Lab Network

Partially redacted intelligence documents and maps released Thursday allege that the United States funds or supports more than 120 biological laboratories across over 30 countries. The documents claim that more than 40 of these facilities are located in Ukraine, where they were reportedly built or supported by the U.S.

According to Tulsi Gabbard, former Director of National Intelligence and a high-ranking figure in U.S. intelligence, some of these laboratories conducted studies on high-risk and infectious pathogens. The documents also reference "Gain-of-Function" research, a controversial area that aims to enhance the biological functions of organisms by altering their genetic characteristics. Gabbard stated, "We will continue our work to identify where these laboratories are located, what pathogens they harbor, and to end dangerous research that threatens human health worldwide."

The released documents indicate that over 40 U.S.-supported laboratories operate in Ukraine. Some of these facilities allegedly worked with Soviet-era biological warfare agents and conducted research on particularly dangerous pathogens such as anthrax, Ebola, MERS, SARS, and plague. The Experimental and Clinical Veterinary Institute in Kharkiv is highlighted as one such facility, reportedly housing "at least some dangerous pathogens," having connections to Soviet biological research, and conducting studies in virology, veterinary medicine, and toxicology. The report also noted deficiencies in biosecurity at this facility, particularly concerning the Brucella bacterium.

Beyond infrastructure support, the documents allege that Washington provided biosecurity training to Ukrainian scientists and financed infectious disease research, including studies on highly pathogenic avian influenza. The Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) assessed that the Russia-Ukraine war has made some laboratories more vulnerable, raising risks of damage, capture, or use for propaganda. The report specifically mentioned that a laboratory in Kharkiv became exposed to security threats, fueling claims of U.S.-linked biological weapons activities.

Gabbard accused former U.S. administrations and certain health officials of misleading the public, directly targeting Anthony Fauci, former chief medical advisor to President Joe Biden, in her statements.

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We will continue our work to identify where these laboratories are located, what pathogens they harbor, and to end dangerous research that threatens human health worldwide.