Federal agencies were monitoring foreign nationals who met with Elon Musk, driven by concerns about their potential influence over the tech entrepreneur. The surveillance, conducted in 2022 and 2023, involved agencies like the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security. The focus was on visitors from Eastern Europe and other regions who might have been attempting to sway Musk.
The investigation, which began before a potential second Trump administration, did not lead to any charges. The specific identities and nationalities of the individuals under surveillance were not disclosed. The Department of Homeland Security declined to comment, while the FBI and representatives for Musk did not immediately respond to requests for information.
The concerns stemmed from Musk's sensitive contracts with the U.S. government and his significant access to high-ranking government officials. Musk's companies have received substantial funding from the U.S. government since 2008, primarily through federal contracts with SpaceX, his private space company. SpaceX holds contracts with the Defense Department for satellite launches, including those for the National Reconnaissance Office.
The reports of foreign associates being tracked followed Musk's departure from Washington, D.C., and a breakdown in his relationship with President Donald Trump. Musk had previously supported the president's re-election efforts. Concerns were raised within the America PAC regarding Musk's associations with foreign nationals, leading to increased vetting procedures.
Furthermore, reports indicated that Musk had been in regular contact with Vladimir Putin since 2022, sparking security concerns. Alleged conversations between Musk and the Russian president covered business and geopolitical topics. While a Kremlin spokesperson confirmed one phone call discussing space and technology, they denied regular conversations. A SpaceX spokesperson at the time dismissed the claims as misleading and unsubstantiated.
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