Overview
- Trump announced on Truth Social that agencies will begin identifying and releasing files related to extraterrestrial life, UFOs and unidentified aerial phenomena, citing strong public interest.
- He made the directive hours after accusing Barack Obama of discussing classified information following Obama’s podcast quip that aliens are “real,” which Obama later clarified was a statistical observation with no evidence of contact.
- The White House highlighted the move, and Hegseth amplified the announcement on social media with an alien emoji and a salute.
- Officials point to prior Pentagon and AARO reports, including a 2024 update, stating they have found no evidence of extraterrestrial beings, activity or technology.
- Outlets report no clear timeline or scope for declassification, as reactions range from supportive calls for oversight hearings to criticism from Rep. Thomas Massie, who cast the push as a distraction from Epstein-related records.