President Donald Trump announced Thursday that he will move to declassify and release government files related to aliens, unidentified flying objects, and what officials refer to as unidentified aerial phenomena, or UAPs.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said he would direct the Secretary of War and other relevant departments and agencies to begin identifying and preparing records for public release concerning “alien and extraterrestrial life” and related matters. He described the issue as complex but of significant public interest.

The announcement revisits a topic that gained national attention during Trump’s first term, when the federal government formally acknowledged the existence of UAPs — the term used by defense officials for unexplained aerial sightings.

In 2020, the United States Department of Defense declassified several Navy videos depicting unidentified objects performing unusual maneuvers. That same year, the administration established the Unidentified Aerial Phenomena Task Force to evaluate potential national security risks associated with such encounters.

In 2021, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence released a preliminary assessment reviewing more than 140 incidents reported by military personnel. The report found no confirmed evidence of extraterrestrial activity but stated that many cases remained unexplained and could present flight safety or security concerns.

Trump’s remarks also followed comments earlier this week from former President Barack Obama referencing the subject. Responding to questions from reporters, Trump suggested that declassification could address concerns raised by Obama’s statements.

In recent years, bipartisan members of Congress have pressed for greater transparency surrounding classified UAP programs and related government research. The administration has not provided a timeline for when any materials may be released.