Two Democratic U.S. senators have urged an investigation into Elon Musk’s potential involvement in SpaceX contracts with the U.S. government, citing national security risks related to his alleged interactions with Russian officials, including President Vladimir Putin.
Senators Jack Reed (Rhode Island) and Jeanne Shaheen (New Hampshire) have written to the Department of Defense and the Department of Justice, requesting a review of whether Musk’s communications with Russian government officials should prompt a reassessment of his continued involvement in SpaceX contracts. The senators argue that these relationships with a U.S. adversary are concerning given Musk’s significant government funding and security clearance.
“Communications between Russian government officials and any individual with a security clearance have the potential to put our security at risk,” the senators stated in their letter.
National Security Risks of Musk’s Ties to Russia
The letter references a report that claims Musk has been in contact with senior Russian figures, including Deputy Chief of Staff Sergei Kiriyenko, who the U.S. accuses of directing efforts to influence the 2024 presidential election. These communications, coupled with Musk’s prominent role as a government contractor, raise questions about his reliability in handling sensitive U.S. contracts.
Musk’s Expanding Role and Possible National Security Concerns
Musk’s influence with the U.S. government, particularly through SpaceX’s satellite launches and Starlink services, has deepened in recent years. Despite his sometimes-controversial behavior, his companies remain crucial to U.S. defense programs, including a $700 million contract with the Space Force and a $1.8 billion classified contract with the National Reconnaissance Office.
While SpaceX’s commercial space endeavors are seen as vital to innovation, the senators stress that the company must demonstrate responsibility in managing sensitive U.S. capabilities, particularly given its significant role in defense and intelligence programs.
Musk Responds to Allegations
Musk, on his platform X, responded defiantly to the accusations, stating: “I’m going to find out who’s making these accusations and nuke them.”
This controversy has intensified the scrutiny over Musk’s ties with the Russian government, as well as his broader influence over critical U.S. space and defense operations.