Additional Coverage:
Elon Musk has reportedly had frequent conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, raising concerns among US and European officials. According to sources, Musk and Putin discussed business and geopolitical issues, including a request from Putin to withhold Starlink services from Taiwan.
Musk, who supports Donald Trump’s presidential campaign, has forged ties with US intelligence and military agencies through SpaceX’s contracts with NASA and the Pentagon. However, the alleged contact with Putin has sparked concerns, particularly given his frosty relations with the US and the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Despite Musk’s claims of “pro-Ukraine” support, he has endorsed Trump and donated heavily to his campaign. Trump, who has praised Putin in the past, denies having contact with him after leaving office.
The Trump campaign has defended Musk’s ties to Putin, stating that Trump is the only candidate under whom Russia did not invade another country. They believe Musk’s ideas and efficiency could benefit the government.