Emmanuel OchayiSenate Democrats Question Elon Musk’s National Security Role
Two senior Senate Democrats have called for an investigation into Elon Musk’s alleged communications with Russian President, Vladimir Putin. The move raises concerns about Musk’s role as a government contractor with access to top-secret information.
In a letter sent on Friday to Attorney General, Merrick Garland and Defense Department Inspector General, Robert Storch, Senators Jack Reed and Jeanne Shaheen demanded clarity on Musk’s reliability.
Join our WhatsApp Channel“Musk’s reported interactions with foreign adversaries could pose significant risks,” the letter stated.
Elon Musk’s Alleged Conversations with Putin
The Wall Street Journal reported that Musk engaged in “multiple, high-level conversations” with Putin and his deputy chief of staff, Sergei Kiriyenko. Kiriyenko has been accused by U.S. authorities of spreading Kremlin propaganda on social media platforms, including X, which Musk owns.
Musk, responding on X, said, “I’m going to find out who’s making these accusations and nuke them,” denying any improper conduct.
The Kremlin dismissed the claims, calling them “groundless rumours.”
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National Security Implications
Senator Reed, chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee, highlighted Musk’s critical role in U.S. defense. “Russia’s ambitions in space are a direct challenge to our security,” Reed said. “Musk’s SpaceX is embedded in sensitive operations, and this raises questions.” SpaceX has contracts with NASA and the Pentagon, underscoring its importance to national defense.
Elon Musk’s Controversial Diplomatic Engagements
Musk has also drawn scrutiny for his involvement in informal diplomacy. Reports suggest he has engaged with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, and others.
CBS News recently claimed Musk visited Iran’s UN ambassador in New York. While Iranian officials denied the meeting, the allegations add to the controversy.
“These actions demonstrate a troubling pattern of unregulated diplomacy,” Shaheen said.
Calls for Investigation
The senators urged the Justice Department and Pentagon to investigate whether Musk’s actions compromise national security or breach his obligations as a contractor.
“Unlike others with high-level security clearances, Musk seems to operate outside established norms,” Shaheen noted.
Elon Musk’s influence extends beyond space and defense into his management of X, a platform often criticised for enabling disinformation.
As scrutiny builds, the investigation could redefine Musk’s role in America’s government and tech industries.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
