Trump orders Pentagon, federal agencies to release files on UFOs and aliens

3 articles
3 sources
0% diversity
Updated 20.2.2026
Key Topics & People
Barack Obama *Pentagon Air Force One Navy Lara Trump

Coverage Framing

3
Political Strategy(3)
Avg Factuality:77%
Avg Sensationalism:Moderate

Story Timeline

Feb 20 Morning

3 articles|3 sources
ufosaliensunidentified aerial phenomenadonald trumpextraterrestrial life
Political Strategy(3)
Al JazeeraFeb 20

Trump orders Pentagon, federal agencies to release files on UFOs and aliens

In February 2026, US President Donald Trump announced he is directing federal agencies, including the Department of Defense, to identify and release government records related to UFOs and alien life forms. The directive aims to release "any and all other information" connected to these topics. The announcement follows increased public interest spurred by recent comments from former President Barack Obama, who suggested the statistical possibility of alien life. Obama later clarified that he saw no evidence of extraterrestrial contact during his presidency. Trump's order, posted on Truth Social, tasks the Secretary of War and other relevant agencies with initiating the file release process.

Mixed toneFactual2 sources
Neutral
The Guardian - World NewsFeb 20

Trump says he will order the release of Pentagon files on aliens and UFOs

Donald Trump announced he will direct the defense department and other agencies to release government files related to aliens, extraterrestrial life, UAPs, and UFOs. The announcement follows comments from Barack Obama about aliens and accusations from Trump that Obama disclosed classified information. Trump stated he doesn't know if aliens are real and suggested declassifying information could help Obama. Public interest in UFOs resurfaced after leaked Navy videos in 2017, leading to congressional hearings and Pentagon promises of transparency. While Lara Trump suggested the president had a speech prepared on aliens, the White House press secretary indicated she was unaware of any such plans.

MeasuredFactual6 sources
Neutral
South China Morning PostFeb 20

Trump says he’s ordering release of US files on UFOs and aliens

President Trump announced he is ordering the Pentagon and other government agencies to release US files related to UFOs, aliens, and extraterrestrial life. The announcement, made via social media, cites "tremendous interest" in the subject. This follows comments made by former President Obama suggesting the possibility of alien life, which Trump referenced, stating he might be "declassifying" information to help Obama. While Trump stated he doesn't know if aliens are real, he is directing agencies to release all information related to UAPs and UFOs. Obama clarified his comments, stating he had not seen evidence of alien contact but believes the universe's vastness makes extraterrestrial life statistically probable.

Mixed toneFactual2 sources
Neutral

Key Claims

factual

Donald Trump is directing federal agencies to begin identifying and releasing government records related to UFOs and alien life forms.

— United States President Donald Trump

factual

Trump did not specify whether classified documents would be released to the public.

quote

Obama saw no evidence during his presidency that extraterrestrials have made contact with us.

— Obama

quote

Trump said he is directing the Secretary of War to begin the process of releasing government files.

— Trump

factual

Donald Trump is directing the defense department to release files on the search for alien life.

— Donald Trump