November 9th 2024.
During a phone call between incoming US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Trump passed his phone over to billionaire Elon Musk. This happened after Zelenskyy had called to congratulate Trump on his election victory. According to a Ukrainian official who was privy to the conversation, Musk was not on the line for the entire duration of the call, but he did speak with Zelenskyy during the conversation.
Musk's presence on the call highlights his influence in Trump's inner circle. There have been discussions of potentially giving Musk a formal role in the new administration, focusing on government efficiency. However, this has raised concerns about conflicts of interest due to SpaceX's government contracts.
Trump's interactions with Zelenskyy are being closely watched as he prepares to take office on January 20. He has hinted at a shift in the US's support for Ukraine against Russia's ongoing invasion. Trump has also suggested that Ukraine should negotiate with Russia and potentially cede some territory in exchange for peace, a proposition that Zelenskyy has rejected.
Under Trump's administration, the US first provided weapons to Ukraine in their fight against Russia in 2017. These Javelin anti-tank missiles were crucial in helping Ukraine defend against the invasion in 2022. However, Trump's successor, President Joe Biden, has sent even more aid to Ukraine, drawing criticism from Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance.
In the days following his election victory, Trump has been speaking with numerous world leaders, business executives, and political figures. Musk was just one of many who Trump spoke with while at his private club and residence in Florida. The Trump transition team declined to comment on these private conversations.
News outlet Axios was the first to report on Musk's presence on the call between Trump and Zelenskyy. In recent years, Musk has become a prominent figure in the business and tech world, with his company SpaceX making groundbreaking advancements in space exploration.
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