NASA Administrator Bill Nelson and numerous Democratic lawmakers are calling for an inquiry into reports that Elon Musk has been in contact with Russian President Vladimir Putin. According to a report from The Wall Street Journal, Musk and Putin have engaged in secret conversations since 2022, discussing a range of topics including personal matters, business interests, and geopolitical tensions.
The call for investigation emerged rapidly after The Journal highlighted claims from various officials in the U.S., Europe, and Russia regarding the nature of Musk’s communications with Putin. Musk has yet to address these allegations publicly, but a statement from SpaceX described the report as “incredibly misleading,” citing unverified claims from unnamed sources.
In a recent interview, Nelson expressed his concern over the implications of such interactions, stating that if the reports are accurate, they could raise significant issues for both NASA and the Department of Defense. He emphasized the need for a thorough investigation but did not specify which agency should carry it out. Rep. Adam Smith, the leading Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee, echoed this sentiment, asserting that the Defense Department should look into Musk’s activities to ensure they do not threaten national security.
The Kremlin has dismissed the claims made by The Journal, with spokesperson Dmitry Peskov asserting that Putin has only spoken to Musk once, focusing their conversation on space and future technologies. Meanwhile, the Department of Defense has acknowledged awareness of the reports but refrained from confirming their accuracy, advising that any inquiries should be directed to Musk regarding his private communications.
Musk’s connections to foreign leaders and nations are particularly noteworthy given his significant role in U.S. space endeavors. SpaceX has secured high-profile contracts with federal agencies, including a $1.8 billion deal to establish a satellite network with the National Reconnaissance Office, which oversees military satellites. This collaboration grants Musk security clearance, providing access to classified information. Experts note that while foreign ties alone don’t disqualify someone from holding security clearance, Musk’s relationships with global leaders could raise concerns for government officials regarding his influence and loyalties.
As discussions about Musk’s political ambitions grow—he has been suggested as a potential member of a future Trump administration—the implications of his connections to figures like Putin become increasingly significant. Analysts warn that any potential conflicts of loyalty must be carefully scrutinized, especially given Musk’s powerful position within the intersection of technology, national security, and international relations.
