President-elect Donald Trump has raised concerns over the widespread reports of mysterious drone sightings across the United States, suggesting that the drones should be shot down if the government is unaware of their origins.

“Mystery Drone sightings all over the Country. Can this really be happening without our government’s knowledge,” Trump posted. “I [don’t] think so! Let the public know, and now. Otherwise, [shoot] them down!”

PRESIDENT TRUMP: SHOOT DOWN THE DRONES pic.twitter.com/HQ61QxhIly

— Jack Poso 🇺🇸 (@JackPosobiec) December 13, 2024

The comments come on the heels of a joint statement from the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) addressing drone sightings in New Jersey. The statement declared: “We have no evidence at this time that the reported drone sightings pose a national security or public safety threat or have a foreign nexus.”

Upon reviewing available imagery, authorities concluded that many reported sightings were actually manned aircraft operating within legal parameters. “There are no reported or confirmed drone sightings in any restricted air space,” the statement added.

Federal agencies have emphasized their commitment to addressing potential threats posed by unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). “We take seriously the threat that can be posed by unmanned aircraft systems,” the joint statement continued. Law enforcement and other agencies are actively investigating the New Jersey sightings but have found “no such malicious activity or intent at this stage.”

Despite the absence of immediate threats, the reports highlight gaps in existing regulatory frameworks. “The reported sightings there do, however, highlight the insufficiency of current authorities,” the agencies noted.

Temporary Flight Restrictions Over Trump’s Golf Club

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has implemented “temporary flight restrictions” over Bedminster, New Jersey, which encompasses Trump’s golf club. These restrictions, initially imposed due to reported sightings, have been extended through December 20, according to Staten Island Live.

The FAA has reaffirmed its commitment to integrating drones safely into the National Airspace System. In an earlier statement, the agency stated: “Safely integrating drones into the National Airspace System is a key priority for the FAA. We look into all reports of unauthorized drone operations and investigate when appropriate.” Drone pilots who endanger aircraft or people may face penalties, including certification revocation and fines of up to $75,000.

🚨 JUST IN: Joe Biden is “NOT READY” to order drone takedowns, John Kirby says

Meanwhile, Trump says SHOOT DOWN THE DRONES if they can’t be identified.

KIRBY: “We know people are afraid. We know people have concerns. We have those same concerns.”

Kirby said not even drones… pic.twitter.com/SdN89SDTEC

— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) December 13, 2024

White House national security spokesperson John Kirby addressed the drone sightings in a Friday interview with Fox News. Kirby confirmed that President Joe Biden had “tasked the team to look into this” and acknowledged having reviewed some of the imagery associated with the reports.

The ongoing investigations underline the growing need for robust regulations and swift action to address public concerns about drone activity in U.S. airspace.