WASHINGTON – Former President Donald Trump has directed U.S. Government agencies to begin the process of identifying and releasing files related to unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP), commonly known as UFOs, alien life, and related topics. The announcement, made on his Truth Social platform Thursday evening, comes amid renewed public and political interest in the subject, fueled in part by recent comments from former President Barack Obama.
“Based on the tremendous interest shown, I will be directing the Secretary of War, and other relevant Departments and Agencies, to begin the process of identifying and releasing Government files related to alien and extraterrestrial life, unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP), and unidentified flying objects (UFOs), and any and all other information connected to these highly complex, but extremely fascinating and important, matters,” Trump wrote. He concluded the post with his signature slogan, “GOD BLESS AMERICA!”
The move follows a recent interview with Obama where he stated his belief that aliens are real, though he emphasized he hadn’t seen any evidence of their existence and dismissed the idea of a secret government facility like Area 51 hiding extraterrestrial contact. The BBC reported that Obama later clarified his remarks, stating that the vastness of the universe makes it statistically probable that life exists elsewhere.
Donald J. Trump @realDonaldTrump · Feb 19, 2026, 8:13 PM Original Post
Based on the tremendous interest shown, I will be directing the Secretary of War, and other relevant Departments and Agencies, to begin the process of identifying and releasing Government files related to alien and extraterrestrial life, unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP), and unidentified flying objects (UFOs), and any and all other information connected to these highly complex, but extremely interesting and important, matters. GOD BLESS AMERICA!
Trump Criticizes Obama’s Disclosure
Trump, however, was critical of Obama’s comments, suggesting his predecessor had revealed classified information. As reported by Axios, Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One that Obama “made a big mistake” by discussing the possibility of alien life. He did not elaborate on what specific information he believed was classified.
When asked directly if he believed aliens were real, Trump offered a more cautious response: “Well, I don’t know if they’re real or not.” This contrasts with his directive to government agencies to declassify related files, signaling a willingness to explore the topic despite his personal uncertainty.
A History of UAP Interest
Interest in UAPs has been growing in recent years, with increased attention from the U.S. Military and intelligence communities. In 2021, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence released a preliminary assessment of UAPs, documenting 144 incidents of unidentified aerial phenomena observed by U.S. Military personnel between 2004 and 2021. The report acknowledged that many of these incidents remain unexplained.
The Pentagon has since established the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) to investigate UAPs and assess potential national security risks. AARO continues to collect and analyze reports of UAPs, but a comprehensive understanding of these phenomena remains elusive.
What’s Next for the Released Files?
Trump’s directive does not specify a timeline for the release of the requested files. It remains unclear which government agencies will be involved in the process, what types of documents will be included, and how long it will seize to identify and declassify the information. The “Secretary of War” reference is notable, as the Department of War was renamed the Department of the Army in 1947. It is likely a rhetorical choice by Trump.
The announcement has already generated significant buzz online, with many expressing both excitement and skepticism. Advocates for transparency in government are hopeful that the release of these files will shed light on a long-held mystery, while others remain unconvinced that any conclusive evidence of extraterrestrial life will be found.
The White House has not yet commented on Trump’s directive. Further updates will likely be provided by the Department of Defense and other relevant agencies as the process unfolds. The public can expect to receive updates through official government channels and major news outlets.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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