White House voices remarks on ‘mystery’ drones

(MENAFN) US authorities have dismissed rumors that recent drone sightings over the eastern US were linked to hostile activities, following months of speculation. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, during a briefing on Tuesday, clarified that the drones were "not the enemy," as she relayed a message "directly from the president."

The unidentified drones had been spotted in several states, including New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Virginia, leading to arrests in Massachusetts and California. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that some of the drones operating in New Jersey had been authorized for research, while others were flown by private enthusiasts.

While the sightings triggered temporary flight restrictions, including at Stewart International Airport in New York, the Biden administration had previously assured the public that the drones posed no threat, with Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas noting the widespread use of civilian drones in the US.

Amid public concern and calls for more transparency, President Donald Trump, in his first days in office, criticized the previous administration for not releasing more information about the drones. Lawmakers have also called for expanded powers to address such incidents more effectively.

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