Shelekhov:US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has urged Russia to fully disclose details about a deadly incident at a biological laboratory in Siberia, calling for transparency with the international community.

According to Anadolu Agency, Rubio made his remarks during a joint news conference with Icelandic Foreign Minister Thorgerdur Katrin Gunnarsdottir. He emphasized the importance of sharing information globally, especially when infections occur in specialized facilities, referencing lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Rubio advised against making unsubstantiated claims regarding the possibility of an intentionally altered pathogen being involved. He warned that speculation without complete facts would be reckless and stated that the US has not yet determined whether the incident is minor or part of a larger issue.

The incident reportedly involved a 28-year-old female researcher from the Irkutsk Anti-Plague Research Institute, who died from 'pneumonia of unknown etiology.' Local reports suggest accidental laboratory exposure, leading to quarantine measures and mask mandates in nearby Shelekhov. However, Russian consumer safety watchdog Rospotrebnadzor reported that the epidemiological situation is stable.

US President Donald Trump expressed that Washington is closely monitoring the situation and stands ready to assist Moscow. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov welcomed this offer, noting the positivity of mutual aid.