Earlier quoted context omitted.
The whole "biolab" thing is pretty common Russian propaganda [1]. Unsurprising to hear Gabbard parroting it yet again. [1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ukraine_bioweapons_conspiracy_...
Victoria Nuland linked the Ukraine labs to bio weapons during a Senate hearing, in response to a question by Rubio. Rubio: “Does Ukraine have chemical or biological weapons?” Nuland: “Ukraine has biological research facilities...” https://www.c-span.org/clip/senate-committee/senator-rubio-q... Why would you mention the labs in connection to a question specifically about bio weapons?
Which situation do you think looks worse, admitting to having biological research facilities (unrelated to weaponry), or having Russians invade, take over one of said research facilities, and run with whatever story they want to justify their war?