WASHINGTON / ANKARA

American tech billionaire Elon Musk has reportedly been in regular contact with Russian President Vladimir Putin since late 2022.

According to a report Thursday by The Wall Street Journal, these communications, which include discussions on personal topics, business ventures, and sensitive geopolitical issues, are raising serious national security concerns among American policymakers.

Musk, who wields considerable influence in US defense through his control of SpaceX and its satellite network Starlink, plays a critical role in military and intelligence operations. His interactions with one of the US’ primary adversaries, therefore, have heightened anxieties in Washington.

The discussions have reportedly been verified by multiple current and former officials from the US, Europe, and Russia.

Musk’s influence on US national security

Musk’s influence in US defense extends beyond his business interests, with SpaceX holding vital contracts with the Pentagon and NASA, while Starlink provides essential satellite internet services for US defense communications, including a $1.8 billion classified contract signed in 2021.

Given his access to classified information and involvement in key defense infrastructure, Musk's interactions with foreign leaders, particularly Putin, are seen as particularly sensitive.

His political affiliations, especially as a prominent supporter of former President Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign, suggest he could shape US foreign policy significantly, potentially advising on technology and efficiency in a future Trump administration.

Musk’s dual role in both the tech and defense sectors presents unique challenges for policymakers, as his ties with foreign leaders and political figures raise critical questions about foreign influence and implications for US national security.

US-China tensions over Taiwan

Another notable detail from Musk’s reported talks with Putin is a request related to Taiwan.

During one conversation, Putin allegedly asked Musk not to activate Starlink over Taiwan as a favor to Chinese President Xi Jinping. This exchange underscores China’s strategic interest in Taiwan and highlights Musk’s complex position amid escalating US-China tensions.

Although Starlink has yet to be activated in Taiwan, the report underscores Musk’s influence on delicate geopolitical matters. His interactions with both Russian and Chinese leaders on sensitive issues raise concerns about his neutrality and the broader impact of private-sector figures on global security dynamics.

Starlink, widely used in conflict zones like Ukraine, has become essential for both civilian and military communications. US defense experts view it as critical for maintaining communication with allies, raising concerns over potential risks if Musk succumbs to foreign political pressures.

This development further complicates US-China relations and has sparked debate within the defense sector on how much control an individual in Musk’s position should hold.

While the US and its allies have sought to isolate Putin in recent years, Musk’s continued dialogue with the Russian leader may signal a potential shift towards re-engagement, aligning with Trump’s interest in negotiating solutions to critical issues such as the Ukraine conflict, the report suggested. 

The Wall Street Journal also noted that Musk’s contacts with the Kremlin appear to be a closely guarded matter within the US government, with some White House officials stating they were unaware of the interactions.