Trump vows to release classified information on aliens after admonishing Obama for commenting on classified information about aliens

Fortune

by Catherina Gioino

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

President Donald Trump has vowed to release classified government records related to aliens, extraterrestrial life, and unidentified flying objects (UFOs) following his criticism of former President Barack Obama for discussing classified information about aliens on a podcast. In a Truth Social post, Trump announced he would direct the Secretary of War and relevant agencies to begin declassifying documents connected to these topics, which have sparked significant public interest. This move came after Trump condemned Obama for revealing classified details when he admitted that aliens are "real" during an interview. Trump’s decision to declassify such information appears aimed at addressing Obama’s comments, which he described as a “big mistake.” While Trump claimed he doesn’t hold a specific opinion on the existence of extraterrestrials, he acknowledged the widespread belief in them among the public. However, Trump’s approach to declassification has been controversial. In 2022, he questioned the process and authority surrounding declassifying sensitive information, even suggesting that a president could declassify documents merely by thinking about it—a claim dismissed by national security experts. This issue gained further attention during Trump’s second presidential campaign when he faced legal challenges related to retaining classified materials. Despite these developments, Trump’s announcement to release alien-related records has raised questions about the implications for national security and government transparency. Critics argue that such actions could undermine sensitive intelligence-sharing practices or lead to the disclosure of information intended to protect national interests. From a business perspective, this matter highlights the potential impact of government policies on public trust and international relations. Decisions regarding classified information can influence perceptions of leadership credibility and national stability, which are critical factors for businesses operating in global markets. Additionally, the declassification of sensitive materials could have broader implications for industries reliant on secure communication and technology, potentially affecting trade agreements or technological partnerships. Overall, Trump’s vow to release alien-related records reflects a broader tension between transparency and national security, while also serving as an opportunity to address public curiosity and political optics. For businesses, understanding the potential fallout from such decisions is crucial, particularly in sectors that rely on stable international relations and secure information practices.

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Originally published on Fortune on 2/20/2026