Donald Trump has demanded answers as mysterious drone sightings across the US continue to leave officials scratching their heads.
Writing on Truth Social on Friday, Trump said: “Mystery sightings all over the country. Can this really be happening without our government’s knowledge? I don’t think so! Let the public know, and now. Otherwise, shoot them down!!!”
The unusual drone activity started last month, with most reports coming from New Jersey.
Residents there have spotted dozens of drones flying at night near sensitive locations, including the Picatinny Arsenal – a US military research facility – and Trump’s golf course in Bedminster.
Some witnesses claimed the drones were larger than those used for recreational purposes, with reports suggesting some were even the size of an SUV.
The sightings have sparked a mixed response. While Governor Phil Murphy has assured the public that the drones pose no threat to safety, others aren’t so convinced.
Congressman Andy Kim, for instance, shared a video of drones near Round Valley Reservoir on X, writing: “This has gone on for weeks. It’s hard to understand how, with the technology we have, we aren’t able to track these devices to determine origin.”
Homeland Security officials held discussions with local leaders earlier this week to address the growing concerns.
But Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas has downplayed the situation, suggesting many sightings are cases of mistaken identity.
Speaking to CNN, he said: “We have not seen any unusual activity. We know of no threat. We know of no nefarious activity. Technology has not confirmed any drone sightings.”
Mayorkas added that some reports turned out to be small aircraft rather than drones.
However, with sightings increasing across the country – from Washington DC to California – scepticism remains high.
The FBI is now investigating the incidents and has encouraged residents to submit photos, videos, or any other evidence.
Meanwhile, the Pentagon insists there’s no threat to national security but has been unable to explain where the drones are coming from or who is operating them.
As officials search for answers, some conspiracy theories are also filling the information void.
Some conspiracy theorists have linked the sightings to “Project Blue Beam,” a decades-old theory claiming governments plan to stage celestial events, or even alien invasions, to manipulate the public.
While far-fetched, such ideas have gained traction online, fuelled by frustration over the lack of official explanations.
