In remarks to the press, President Trump accused former President Barack Obama of revealing classified information in recent comments about extraterrestrial life. Later that same day, on Truth Social, Trump issued an executive order requiring the release of all government files on the matter.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on February 19, 2026, Trump criticized Obama’s comments in a podcast interview. “He gave classified information. He’s not supposed to be doing that. I don’t know if they’re real or not. I can tell you he gave classified information. He made a big mistake,” Trump said, adding, “Maybe I’ll get him out of trouble. I may get him out of trouble by declassifying.”
Trump’s UAP executive order
That same day, Trump shared on Truth Social,
Based on the tremendous interest shown, I will be directing the Secretary of War, and other relevant Departments and 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), and any and all other information connected to these highly complex, but extremely interesting and important, matters. GOD BLESS AMERICA!”
What did Obama say about aliens?
The controversy stems from Obama’s February 14 appearance on the No Lie with Brian Tyler Cohen podcast. During a rapid-fire question segment, Obama was asked whether aliens are real. “They’re real, but I haven’t seen them, and they’re not being kept in Area 51,” Obama said, speaking broadly about the statistical likelihood of life elsewhere in the universe while dismissing conspiracy theories about secret government facilities.
The comments spread quickly, with some users interpreting it as a tacit confirmation of extraterrestrial existence. However, Obama later clarified his remarks, saying he saw no evidence during his presidency that extraterrestrials had made contact with Earth. He emphasized that while the universe’s vast size makes the possibility of life elsewhere plausible, there was no proof of alien visitation in classified briefings he received.
Classified information claim
Trump did not specify what classified material Obama allegedly disclosed. Obama’s remarks did not reference specific intelligence programs, military capabilities, or classified reports. In recent years, the Pentagon and intelligence agencies have acknowledged investigating UAP sightings reported by military pilots and other personnel.
Meanwhile, declassified reports have documented unexplained aerial incidents but have not concluded that any involve extraterrestrial technology. Congress has also held hearings examining how the Defense Department handles UAP data, fueling bipartisan calls for greater transparency. Still, official assessments to date have found no verified evidence of alien contact.
Trump’s order to release additional files could expand public access to government records related to those investigations. It remains unclear how much new information will be disclosed or whether any material will remain classified for national security reasons.
Published: Feb 21, 2026 07:19 am