WASHINGTON D.C. (Feb 20, 2026) — President Donald Trump has announced he is directing federal agencies to begin the full declassification and release of government documents regarding extraterrestrial life and Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP).
The Disclosure Order
In a late-night Truth Social post, Trump stated he has instructed the “Secretary of War” and other departments to identify and release all files related to UFOs and alien life.
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The Rationale: Trump cited “tremendous public interest” in the subject, labeling the matters “highly complex, but extremely interesting and important.”
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Targeting Obama: The announcement follows Trump’s accusation that Barack Obama leaked classified data during a recent podcast by discussing aliens. Trump suggested his declassification order would “get Obama out of trouble” by making that information public.
Political Context
The move comes at a strategic moment in a high-stakes midterm election year:
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Distraction from Epstein Files: Critics suggest the UFO focus is an attempt to shift the narrative away from the recently released Jeffrey Epstein files, which mention Trump’s name.
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Economic Pressure: With Republicans fighting to hold congressional majorities, the administration is facing low approval ratings regarding the cost of living and general affordability.
Background on UAPs
While a 2021 intelligence report remained inconclusive about the origin of UFOs, the Pentagon has previously released footage of military pilots encountering objects capable of “impossible” aerial maneuvers. Trump’s new directive promises a much deeper dive into these highly guarded archives.
