Published: 20 February 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online
In a move that has ignited global curiosity and speculation, former US President Donald Trump has announced that he is directing the Pentagon and other federal agencies to begin identifying and preparing the release of government files related to alien life, extraterrestrial phenomena and UFOs—commonly referred to as unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP). The directive comes amid heightened public interest and widespread debate over whether the US government holds classified information about unexplained sightings and possible extraterrestrial encounters.
Trump’s announcement was posted on his social media platform, where he emphasised that the decision to push for disclosure stems from what he described as “tremendous interest shown” by the public in these topics. He said he will instruct the Secretary of Defense and other relevant agency heads to begin the process of finding and releasing all files and documents connected to alien and extraterrestrial life, UAPs and unidentified flying objects (UFOs).
Although Trump stopped short of confirming whether such files contain evidence of extraterrestrial contact, he criticised comments made by a predecessor, former President Barack Obama, who recently sparked controversy by saying aliens are “real” — remarks that Trump suggested might have unknowingly revealed classified information. Trump told reporters that he does not personally know whether aliens exist, but said he may “get [Obama] out of trouble” by declassifying information related to the topic.
The president’s directive represents one of the most ambitious pushes for government transparency on UFOs and extraterrestrial matters in decades. For years, the Pentagon and congressional committees have grappled with growing public demand for clearer records on UAPs. In 2022, military officials testified before Congress about hundreds of UAP reports collected by US forces, with a minority flagged for further study due to unusual movement characteristics. However, none of the investigations have produced verified evidence of alien visitation or non-human technology.
Trump’s directive does not immediately release classified documents, but starts a formal review process that could lead to significant public disclosure if files are declassified. His announcement follows renewed congressional and public interest in unidentified aerial phenomena — a topic that has gained traction since a series of leaked Navy videos in 2017 showed unidentified objects observed by military personnel.
Supporters of full disclosure have welcomed Trump’s move, arguing that the public deserves greater access to information about unexplained sightings and government knowledge. Critics, however, caution that the push may fuel conspiracy theories and misinformation, especially if files are released without context or clear scientific explanation.
Experts also note that previous government transparency efforts have shown that most UAP sightings are eventually attributed to conventional objects such as drones, aircraft, weather balloons or natural atmospheric phenomena. Yet a small percentage of cases remain unresolved due to insufficient data.
As the review process begins, both UFO enthusiasts and sceptics are watching closely. Some anticipate that any genuine revelations — if released — could reshape public understanding of aerial phenomena and bolster arguments for scientific investigation; others argue that long-held intrigue over “alien disclosure” may ultimately be satisfied with mundane explanations.
Trump’s directive underscores how fascination with UFOs and the search for extraterrestrial life continues to intersect with politics, science and public imagination — a blend that shows no signs of fading anytime soon.




























































































