Taiwan's lack of Starlink truth? Musk's secret connection with Putin exposed: Starlink, Taiwan, and U.S. elections influence
The Wall Street Journal latest report reveals that billionaire tech mogul Elon Musk has been in regular contact with Russian President Vladimir Putin since 2022. The report indicates that Musk's actions regarding his Starlink satellite network project and his influence in US politics are under increased scrutiny.
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Continued Contact Between Musk and Putin Since 2022
According to sources cited by The Wall Street Journal, Musk has been in regular contact with Putin since late 2022, with their conversations even continuing into this year. Musk has publicly criticized U.S. support for Ukraine while also supporting former President Donald Trump in the 2024 election. The exposure of this unexpected connection has raised questions about Musk's influence in international politics and his potential manipulation of sensitive issues.
Did Putin Request on Behalf of China to Deny Taiwan's Starlink Usage?
One intriguing point in the report is that Putin, on behalf of Chinese President Xi Jinping, made a request to Musk. According to two informed sources, Putin asked Musk not to enable Starlink network services in Taiwan, aligning with China's stance on Taiwan. While Musk's response remains unclear, his control over the Starlink satellite network gives him a unique influence in international diplomacy and technology.
Musk's Political Influence Beyond Silicon Valley
These revelations come during the U.S. presidential election season, making them particularly significant. Musk's influence now extends far beyond the tech industry, as through his social platform X (formerly Twitter) and aerospace company SpaceX, Musk holds numerous contracts with the U.S. government and has access to classified information. This blend of commercial interests and high-level government connections places him in a unique position, raising concerns about his potential impact on national security and U.S. foreign policy.
Starlink's Dual Role in Ukraine
Musk's Starlink satellite network service played a crucial role in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Initially providing free Starlink services to Ukraine significantly enhanced the country's communication and defense capabilities, considered an asset in Ukraine's resistance against Russian forces. However, as the conflict prolonged, Musk gradually reduced support to Ukraine. In 2022, he restricted Ukraine's military use of Starlink, affecting their drone operations, leading to frustration among Ukrainian officials and escalating tensions between him and Ukrainian President Zelensky and other leaders.
Musk's Support for the Kremlin's Peace Proposal Sparks Controversy
Musk's stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict goes beyond limiting Starlink's use. In October 2022, he tweeted a series proposing a peace plan for Ukraine, aligning with the Kremlin's position. Musk referred to it as a personal peace proposal, but these tweets faced strong backlash from Kyiv, with officials accusing him of sympathizing with Russia. Musk's public stance in the war has led to complex perceptions of his position, viewed as an independent voice by some and criticized by others for unwarranted comments on international affairs.
Russian Military Allegedly Using Starlink for Operations
According to Ukrainian military intelligence, Russian forces appear to have started using Starlink technology. Reports in early 2024 indicated that Russian troops used Starlink on the Ukrainian frontlines, with Musk yet to confirm or deny these allegations. This development has further raised concerns about the control and regulation of Starlink's use in conflict zones.
Kremlin Denies Ongoing Contact with Musk
In response to The Wall Street Journal's claims, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that the Russian government had only had a brief conversation with Musk, limited to "space and future technologies." Peskov dismissed the report as "completely untrue information." The Kremlin's denial contrasts sharply with The Wall Street Journal's report, casting a shadow of doubt on the truth of Musk's interactions with the Russian side.
U.S. Government Unaware
Despite Musk playing a crucial role in national security projects, The Wall Street Journal report stated that Musk's communications with Putin have been secretive from the U.S. government. Some senior White House officials expressed surprise at this news, indicating that even top U.S. officials are not fully aware of Musk's communications with the Russian side.
Musk Remains Silent on the Reports
As of now, Musk has yet to publicly respond to The Wall Street Journal's allegations or respond to requests for comments. His silence has led supporters and critics to speculate on his relationship with Putin and the potential impact of his actions on future U.S. foreign policy, especially amidst the Ukraine conflict and U.S.-China relations.
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