Elon Musk had 'secret conversations' with Vladimir Putin since 2022, claims report

In a development that could potentially reshape the upcoming US Presidential elections, Elon Musk, who has become a close ally of Republican candidate Donald Trump, has been accused of having ¡°regular contact¡± with Russian President Vladimir Putin. According to a Wall Street Journal report, the Tesla and SpaceX CEO has been in contact with Vladimir Putin since late 2022, and the two have discussed a wide range of topics, from personal issues to geopolitical tensions.

CREDIT: AP

Putin asked Musk not to activate Starlink over Taiwan

One of the most politically damaging allegations raised in the WSJ report is the claim that Putin asked Musk not to activate his Starlink satellites over Taiwan as a "favour" to Chinese leader Xi Jinping, to which he complied. A former Russian intelligence officer told the newspaper that the request came late last year.

Why US may not like Putin-Musk relationship

The allegation that Musk was in touch with Putin could be troublesome for the world's richest man, whose companies, including SpaceX, have extensive business dealings with the US military and government agencies, granting him access to sensitive information.

CREDIT: REUTERS

Bad for Trump

Unsurprisingly, Musk, who has been vocal in criticising US media houses critical of Trump, has remained silent on the WSJ report. This could also be damaging to Trump, who himself has faced accusations of being soft on Putin. As one of the most influential supporters of Trump, Musk has deeply involved himself in the US Presidential election.

CREDIT: REUTERS

Putin's friend in Trump cabinet?

Over the past few months, there have also been several indications from both Trump and Musk that the billionaire could be in line for a cabinet role if the Republican candidate is elected to the White House in November.

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