Former DNI Tulsi Claims U.S. Funded Over 120 Biological Labs in 30+ Countries

Former Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Tulsi Gabbard has claimed, citing newly declassified documents, that the United States has historically funded more than 120 biological laboratories across over 30 countries.

The disclosure has triggered a major policy shift under the administration of President Donald Trump, according to statements from U.S. officials.

In a statement released by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), it was said that many of these laboratories conducted research on highly dangerous and infectious pathogens, including controversial “gain-of-function” experiments—research aimed at enhancing the transmissibility or virulence of viruses.

Gabbard alleged that such high-risk research was conducted under minimal oversight, raising serious concerns about global health and security risks.

She said the ODNI would continue working with other U.S. government agencies to identify the locations of these laboratories and the types of pathogens stored within them.

“Our goal is to end dangerous gain-of-function research that poses a threat to the health and safety of Americans and people around the world,” she said.

Claims Regarding Ukrainian Laboratories

The declassified materials also reportedly claim that more than 40 laboratories in Ukraine were involved in handling pathogens linked to former Soviet-era biological weapons programs.

According to the documents, these facilities conducted research on highly infectious diseases such as anthrax, Ebola, MERS, SARS, and plague—classified as especially dangerous pathogens.

The report cited Ukraine’s Kherson diagnostic laboratory as an example, stating that it received $1.72 million in U.S. funding while approval processes for handling specific pathogens were still pending.

Allegations Against Past U.S. Officials

Gabbard sharply criticized previous U.S. administrations and senior public health officials, alleging that they misled the public about the existence and nature of these overseas laboratories.

She specifically named former White House COVID-19 advisor Dr. Anthony Fauci, accusing him and members of the Biden administration’s national security team of failing to disclose the full scope of U.S.-funded biological research abroad.

She also alleged that individuals who attempted to raise concerns about such programs were previously threatened or discouraged from speaking publicly.

Trump Orders Halt to Gain-of-Function Funding

Following the release of the intelligence findings, President Donald Trump reportedly ordered a sweeping halt to all federal funding for gain-of-function research worldwide.

In addition, Gabbard has directed U.S. intelligence agencies to prioritize the collection of information related to all overseas laboratories receiving U.S. funding.

Ongoing Review and International Oversight

The ODNI said the expanded scrutiny has already begun uncovering new data related to ongoing clinical trials and research activities at some of the facilities, raising ethical, financial, and security concerns.

However, there has been no immediate response from Dr. Anthony Fauci or former Biden administration officials regarding the allegations.