Elon Musk’s recent remarks on the Ukraine conflict have stirred controversy and added fuel to the ongoing debate over the US’s role in supporting Ukraine against Russia. According to a report by Bloomberg, Musk, during a forum held on X Spaces, made bold statements regarding the war and the effectiveness of proposed assistance to Ukraine.
The forum featured discussions among notable figures, including Musk, former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, David Sacks of Craft Ventures LLC, and state representatives Ron Johnson, JD Vance, and Mike Lee. Musk’s comments echoed those of Senator Ron Johnson, who expressed skepticism about the possibility of Ukraine winning the war against Russia, calling such expectations “living in a fantasy world.”
JD Vance also voiced opposition to a Senate bill aimed at providing $95 billion in assistance, including $60 billion for Ukraine, as well as funding for Israel, Taiwan, and humanitarian aid for Gaza. Vance criticized the bill, stating that the spending would not aid Ukraine and could prolong the conflict.
Musk’s stance on the conflict isn’t new. He had previously expressed doubts about Ukraine’s ability to prevail in the war and had mocked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s appeals for aid. This has drawn criticism from Ukraine and Democratic members of Congress.
In the forum, Musk highlighted the pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin to continue the fight, suggesting that backing off could lead to his assassination. He refuted accusations of being a Putin apologist, citing the efforts of his companies, particularly SpaceX, in undermining Russia. Musk pointed to SpaceX’s provision of Starlink internet service to Ukraine, which has been crucial for the nation’s communications post-invasion, as well as SpaceX’s impact on Russia’s space launch business.
However, Musk’s views sharply contrast with those of President Joe Biden and Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell, who argue for aiding Ukraine’s defense to deter autocrats from initiating wars.
Musk emphasized his interest in preventing further casualties in the conflict and questioned the wisdom of advocating for Putin’s removal. He warned that a potential successor to Putin might be even more aggressive, undermining hopes for peace.
In response to the Senate’s passage of the $95.34 billion military aid package for Ukraine and other allies, Biden urged the Republican-controlled House of Representatives to follow suit. However, uncertainty loomed over whether House Speaker Mike Johnson would bring the bill to a vote, given the narrow margin of control by the Republican Party.
As the conflict intensifies and Ukrainian officials warn of weapons shortages amid renewed attacks by Russia, the debate over US assistance to Ukraine continues to unfold. President Zelenskiy welcomed the Senate’s passage of the aid package, emphasizing its significance in achieving peace and global stability.