President Trump Urges Transparency Over Mysterious Drone Sightings on the East Coast

In a recent press statement in Palm Beach, Florida, President-elect Donald Trump addressed a series of drone sightings that have stirred concerns among residents along the East Coast. Trump urged the US military to disclose more information regarding these incidents, which he believes should be public knowledge.

The drone sightings, first reported in mid-November in New Jersey, have since spread to Maryland, Massachusetts, and several other states. According to Trump, the government possesses insights into these occurrences but has so far chosen not to share them. "The government knows what is happening," Trump stated at the press conference. "For some reason, they don't want to comment. I think they'd be better off saying what it is our military knows and our president knows."

Despite the escalating public curiosity and unease, Pentagon spokesperson Maj-Gen Pat Ryder has reassured that these drones pose no threat. Speaking prior to Trump's statements, Ryder clarified that flying drones is a common and legal activity across the United States. He emphasized that the presence of drones near military installations is not uncommon and usually does not indicate malicious intentions or compromise operational security.

Further investigations by the FBI revealed that out of over 5,000 reported drone sightings, fewer than 100 warranted additional scrutiny. Importantly, all significant sightings involving fixed-wing drones turned out to be manned aircraft, dismissing any immediate national security concerns.

In response to growing concerns over airspace security highlighted by the sightings, Trump’s appointee for national security adviser, Mike Waltz, pointed out that these incidents underline significant gaps in the current US airspace security measures, suggesting a need for immediate action to mitigate potential vulnerabilities.

Additionally, undisclosed US officials noted that measures are being implemented to enhance drone detection and tracking capabilities, particularly at strategic locations such as Picatinny Arsenal and Naval Weapons Station Earle in New Jersey. These enhancements aim to augment existing security protocols although the timeline for their operational deployment remains unclear.

As the situation evolves, White House national security spokesperson, John Kirby, confirmed the ongoing assessment by US law enforcement agencies which concurs that these drone sightings have not constituted any illegal activities or posed serious national security threats.

Trump's call for transparency reflects growing public demand for clarity and reassurance regarding the safety and integrity of US airspace, particularly when it comes to unidentified flying objects, whether they are drones or otherwise. As the issue persists, understanding and open communication may prove crucial in maintaining public trust and security.