A report by the Wall Street Journal reveals that Elon Musk has maintained regular communication with Vladimir Putin over the past two years, discussing personal and geopolitical matters. Notably, Putin requested that Musk refrain from activating his Starlink satellite internet service over Taiwan, a request tied to Chinese interests. This relationship raises significant security concerns, as Musk is integral to U.S. space operations and national security, particularly through SpaceX and Starlink, which plays a vital role in the Ukraine war.
The report indicates that Musk's connections could influence U.S. politics, especially if Donald Trump wins the upcoming election. Trump has hinted at appointing Musk to a government position, which could result in favorable regulatory conditions for Musk's businesses. Fiona Hill, a former Trump administration official, criticized the potential for "oligarch capture" of U.S. governance, suggesting that Musk's influence could extend to military contracts and policy decisions.
While Musk has not publicly commented on these revelations, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov downplayed the nature of Musk's interactions with Russian officials. Nonetheless, these findings highlight the complex interplay of business, politics, and international relations surrounding Musk and his companies.
If ScoobyDoo wants to debate Julian Borger about it she send off her questions to the Guardian.
The article's too long for her, eh folks.
Here's a summary of the concerns expressed:
A report by the Wall Street Journal reveals that Elon Musk has maintained regular communication with Vladimir Putin over the past two years, discussing personal and geopolitical matters. Notably, Putin requested that Musk refrain from activating his Starlink satellite internet service over Taiwan, a request tied to Chinese interests. This relationship raises significant security concerns, as Musk is integral to U.S. space operations and national security, particularly through SpaceX and Starlink, which plays a vital role in the Ukraine war.
The report indicates that Musk's connections could influence U.S. politics, especially if Donald Trump wins the upcoming election. Trump has hinted at appointing Musk to a government position, which could result in favorable regulatory conditions for Musk's businesses. Fiona Hill, a former Trump administration official, criticized the potential for "oligarch capture" of U.S. governance, suggesting that Musk's influence could extend to military contracts and policy decisions.
While Musk has not publicly commented on these revelations, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov downplayed the nature of Musk's interactions with Russian officials. Nonetheless, these findings highlight the complex interplay of business, politics, and international relations surrounding Musk and his companies.
If ScoobyDoo wants to debate Julian Borger about it she send off her questions to the Guardian.