Conclusion
Project MKUltra was not at all ethical. It's subjects were "unwitting" and were harmed both mentally and physically. It was not only unethical but it was also highly illegal, impeding on American citizens' constitutional rights. The scientists put in-charge of the experiment specifically reported that they knew the experiments would be highly damaging and decided to conduct them anyways. They also knew that if the American public found out about said experiments it would damage diplomatic relationships and generate mass distrust and, as reported "dire consequences". Bottom line, the CIA knew exactly what they were doing and they found the research worth the risk and the physical and emotional harm to their innocent subjects.