Reports have emerged that Elon Musk, the world’s richest man and a leading figure in space exploration, had regular communication with Russian President Vladimir Putin since late 2022. This revelation comes as Musk prominently supports the Republican presidential candidate, Donald Trump.
According to a report by the Wall Street Journal, two insider sources revealed that Putin requested Musk to avoid activating the Starlink satellite internet service in Taiwan, aligning with Chinese leader Xi Jinping's interests.
The U.S. government faces a dilemma because it heavily relies on Musk's technology. His company, SpaceX, launches crucial satellites for U.S. national security and transports NASA astronauts to and from the International Space Station.
White House officials expressed surprise over these new details, emphasizing the sensitivity due to Musk’s growing involvement in Trump’s campaign as the presidential election approaches.
Although Musk hasn't commented, he previously dismissed allegations of being a Putin advocate as "ridiculous," asserting his companies have done more to undermine Russia than anything else.
A Pentagon spokesperson declined to comment, stating, "We do not comment on the security clearance, reviews, or status of any individual.”
These communications worry U.S. administration officials due to potential national security implications, given Putin’s status as a primary U.S. adversary.
Musk holds deep commercial ties with the U.S. military and intelligence agencies, granting him access to some of America's most sensitive space programs. SpaceX won a $1.8 billion secret contract in 2021 with the Pentagon and NASA, and Musk’s security clearance allows access to classified information.