US Senators Demand Probe into Elon Musk's SpaceX Contracts Amid Russian Ties
- Posted on November 16, 2024
- News
- By Arijit Dutta
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US senators have urged an investigation into Elon Musk’s SpaceX contracts, citing alleged ties to Russian officials, including President Putin. With SpaceX deeply integrated into US defense and intelligence programs, concerns about national security have been raised, prompting calls for a review of Musk's role in sensitive federal projects.
Two Democratic US senators, Jack Reed of Rhode Island and Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire, have called for an investigation into Elon Musk’s involvement in US government contracts through his company SpaceX. The senators cited national security concerns stemming from Musk’s alleged communications with Russian President Vladimir Putin and other senior Russian officials.
In a letter addressed to the Departments of Defense and Justice on Friday, the senators questioned Musk's reliability as a government contractor and clearance holder, citing his ties with a “known US adversary.” They emphasized the potential risks these interactions pose to US national security, given SpaceX's deep integration into defense and intelligence programs.
The senators highlighted that SpaceX holds significant contracts with the US government, including over $700 million for the Space Force’s National Security Space Launch program, a $1.8 billion classified deal with the National Reconnaissance Agency, and the development of the Starshield satellite network for Space Force.
A Wall Street Journal report revealed Musk’s alleged contact with Putin and Russian officials, including Sergei Kiriyenko, since 2022. Kiriyenko has been accused of masterminding efforts to influence the 2024 US presidential campaign.
Responding to the allegations, Musk dismissed them on X, stating, “I’m going to find out who’s making these accusations and nuke them.” SpaceX and Musk have yet to provide official comments on the senators' claims.
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The letter stressed the importance of responsible behavior by contractors involved in sensitive national security operations. The senators urged a review of Musk's continued role in SpaceX’s federal contracts, considering the implications of his alleged relationships.
