NASA chief calls for investigation into report that Musk, Putin spoke 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 refrain from activating Starlink services over Taiwan. While the Kremlin acknowledged only one call between Musk and Putin, the implications of Musk's role in the Ukraine conflict and his financial support for political candidates have also drawn scrutiny. Musk's actions, including his provision of Starlink services to Ukraine, have been pivotal in the ongoing conflict, although his support has fluctuated over time. The situation continues to evolve, with Musk's political involvement and financial contributions to campaigns further complicating the narrative.

- NASA's chief has requested an investigation into Musk's reported communications with Putin.

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

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

- Musk's Starlink services have been crucial for Ukraine's military communications.

- Musk's political contributions and support for Trump have attracted scrutiny.