Why Did Trump Suddenly Order the Pentagon to Declassify UFO and Alien Files? 'Tremendous Interest' Sparked Major Release

US President Donald Trump has suddenly ordered the Pentagon to declassify files on UFOs and alien life, responding to what he called 'tremendous interest' in the topic. The move follows comments by former President Barack Obama hinting at the existence of extraterrestrial life, which Trump criticised as sharing classified information.

Announced on Truth Social, the directive instructs Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth to identify and release relevant documents as of 23 February 2026.

Trump UFO Declassification: The Announcement

In his post, Trump stated he would direct 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).' He emphasised the complexity and importance of these matters. The order does not specify a timeline or which files will be made public, but it signals the start of a review process.

The spark appears to be Obama's recent podcast appearance where he suggested no evidence of alien conspiracies but acknowledged the possibility of life elsewhere. Trump responded by pledging the release to 'get him out of trouble.' A TikTok post from NBC News captured Trump's announcement and his jab at Obama.

This isn't Trump's first engagement with UFOs; during his previous term, reports emerged of Navy pilots encountering unexplained objects. The announcement has prompted immediate speculation about what secrets might be unveiled, from pilot encounters to scientific studies.

Historical Pentagon Involvement in UAP

The Pentagon has a longstanding history of investigating unidentified aerial phenomena, dating back decades. The most notable recent effort was the Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Programme (AATIP), which received $22 million (£16.3 million) in funding over five years from 2007.

Championed by former Senate majority leader Harry Reid, AATIP aimed to assess potential threats from advanced aerospace systems, including those of possible extraterrestrial origin. Although funding ceased in 2012, elements of the work persisted within the defence establishment.

In 2020, the US Navy established the UAP Task Force to systematise reporting and analysis of sightings. A preliminary report in 2021 examined 144 incidents, concluding that while most remained unexplained, there was no indication of alien technology.

Subsequent developments include the creation of the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office in 2022, which continues to collect data. Experts anticipate that declassified files may include radar data, video footage, and scientific evaluations, though classified aspects will likely be withheld.

Reactions to the Declassification Order

Reactions have been mixed, with scientists cautioning against sensationalism. Publications like Scientific American have noted that Trump's order might overshadow legitimate searches for extraterrestrial life by emphasising unproven claims. Transparency advocates see it as a positive step. Former Pentagon official Luis Elizondo described the task as a 'tremendous undertaking,' given the volume of accumulated data.

On X, analyst Joshua Reid posited that the release would reveal more about anomalous physics and technological insights than definitive proof of aliens.

While believers hope for groundbreaking revelations, sceptics recall that previous declassifications often attributed sightings to mundane explanations. Polymarket odds on new UFO files by March 31 stand at 29 to 30 per cent, reflecting some public doubt.

The Trump UFO declassification process is now in motion, with agencies reviewing vast archives for suitable material. No firm timeline has been set, but initial disclosures could emerge in the coming months. As public anticipation builds, the focus remains on balancing transparency with security concerns. Officials reiterate that any evidence of extraterrestrial life would be profound, but so far, none has been confirmed.