DISINFO: Pentagon develops biological weapons in more than 470 biolabs around the world
SUMMARY
Before the emergence of these American biolaboratories, our history had no records of zoonotic diseases that over time became dangerous and contagious to humans. Since the deployment of these laboratories in Kazakhstan, there have been cases of infectious diseases such as measles, meningitis, [and others].
These laboratories are set up in states that fall under the sphere of US interests - former satellites of the Soviet Union, Russia, as well as other countries over the world, more than 470 altogether. We need to determine whether it is possible to develop bioweapons in these laboratories, or if these laboratories have never been involved in such activities. If development is possible, then the Pentagon's interest in them becomes clear.
RESPONSE
Recurring disinformation narrative about the US and biological weapons. The claim also represents some post-Soviet states as puppets of Washington.
The disinformation about US bio labs aiming to encircle Moscow and spread infectious diseases is a part of a years-long disinformation campaign led by the Kremlin. In fact, biological research laboratories are involved in preventing the risks of complex diseases and, together with other similar projects, counteracting bioterrorism.
The article does not present any evidence that supports the claim that the US is secretly developing biological weapons in laboratories around the world, thus making unfounded accusations.
The Central Reference Laboratory (CRL) in Almaty was opened in 2016. Dangerous strains are not and have not been produced in the CRL. On the contrary, the CRL's activities are focused on biosecurity and protection against dangerous pathogens on the territory of Kazakhstan.
The CRL conducts reference, expert diagnostic, and scientific research work to identify dangerous pathogens in order to prevent potential epidemics in a timely manner.
Up to 40% of Kazakhstan's territory is occupied by natural foci of plague, with three regions (Jambyl, Kyzylorda, and South Kazakhstan) having active natural foci of hemorrhagic fevers, tularemia (in 14 regions), tick-borne encephalitis (in 5 regions), and other infections. Kazakhstan officially denied that its territory is used for the development of biological weapons.
This narrative is part of a larger-scale disinformation campaign. Analysis of pro-Kremlin disinformation narrative about American biolabs can be found here.
See more similar cases: NATO’s biological experiments in US-controlled labs are a danger for Russia; The US is developing biological weapons in bio laboratories near the Russian border; US biolabs have been developing new biological weapons in Ukraine; US bio labs in Ukraine and Georgia conduct dangerous and non-transparent research; Russia suspects the US of developing biological weapons in secret laboratories around the World.