NASA chief calls for probe into report that Musk and Putin have spoken regularly

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson has called for an investigation into a report from the Wall Street Journal suggesting that Elon Musk and Russian President Vladimir Putin have been in regular contact since late 2022. The report raises national security concerns, particularly regarding Musk's access to sensitive information through his connections with NASA and the U.S. military. Nelson expressed that if the report is accurate, it would be troubling for various U.S. agencies. Some U.S. officials have previously raised concerns about Musk's interactions with adversaries, but the intelligence community is hesitant to investigate due to Musk's status as an American citizen. The report indicates that discussions between Musk and Putin included personal topics and geopolitical issues, with one instance involving a request from Putin to Musk regarding Starlink services in Taiwan. While the Kremlin claims there has only been one call discussing space technologies, Musk's role in the Ukraine conflict has been significant, particularly through the provision of Starlink services. However, Musk's support for Ukraine has fluctuated, and he has faced scrutiny for his political contributions and public statements. The situation highlights the complex interplay between private enterprise, national security, and international relations.

- NASA Administrator calls for investigation into Musk-Putin communications.

- Concerns raised about Musk's access to sensitive U.S. information.

- Kremlin claims only one call occurred between Musk and Putin.

- Musk's Starlink services have been crucial for Ukraine amid the conflict.

- Musk's political contributions and statements have drawn scrutiny.