President-elect Donald Trump has called for mysterious drones being spotted across the country to be shot down, questioning the government’s awareness and control over the situation.
“Mystery Drone sightings all over the Country. Can this really be happening without our government’s knowledge,” Trump wrote Friday. “I [don’t] think so! Let the public know, and now. Otherwise, [shoot] them down!”
The remarks follow a joint statement from the FBI and Department of Homeland Security about recent drone sightings in New Jersey. The agencies said there is no evidence tying the sightings to a foreign threat or malicious activity, but they acknowledged gaps in their ability to regulate drones effectively.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has enacted temporary flight restrictions over parts of New Jersey, including Trump’s Bedminster golf club, as investigations continue. The FAA also warned that drone pilots operating unlawfully could face significant penalties, including fines of up to $75,000.
White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said President Biden has tasked officials with investigating the issue, but he cautioned against hastily taking aggressive action. “We don’t have enough conclusions to take that kind of policy action,” Kirby told reporters Friday, referencing concerns about public safety if drones are shot down.
The unexplained drone sightings have sparked both concern and frustration among Americans. Trump’s demand for transparency and action reflects a growing call for the government to provide answers about the situation and to ensure public safety.
As authorities work to better understand the incidents, the debate over how to respond to unauthorized drones highlights the challenges of balancing security with the risks of decisive action.
