Why Donald Trump And Elon Musk's Bromance Might Spell Trouble For Ukraine
In the 24 hours after Election Day, President-elect Donald Trump spoke with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy. While their communication followed the usual protocol of world leaders reaching out to congratulate the incoming U.S. president, the call raised eyebrows because of a third participant: billionaire Elon Musk.
Elon Musk’s unexpected shift from an influential billionaire to a prominent Trump campaign surrogate and close advisor introduces significant uncertainty to U.S. policy on the Ukraine conflict. His involvement in a call between President-elect Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy highlights Musk’s sustained interest in Ukraine, despite his ambivalent stance on the war.
During the call, Musk assured Zelenskyy that SpaceX’s Starlink would continue supporting Ukraine’s communication needs. However, this reassurance may ring hollow for Kyiv, as Musk has previously shown unease about the military use of Starlink and hinted at limiting its availability in contested regions. In 2022, he even considered cutting Starlink service without U.S. funding, prompting the Pentagon to secure a contract with SpaceX.
Musk’s evolving position on Ukraine aligns more closely with Russian President Vladimir Putin’s perspective. His proposed peace plan—suggesting Ukraine cede Crimea and accommodate Russia’s demands—echoes Kremlin talking points, raising concerns about his influence on U.S. foreign policy under the Trump administration. Investigative reporting has revealed Musk’s communications with Putin, further fueling speculation about potential Russian leverage over the billionaire.
The Trump-Musk alliance deepened after Musk endorsed Trump and joined him at events, including a SpaceX launch. Musk’s role in Trump’s inner circle, combined with his appointment to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) alongside Vivek Ramaswamy, positions him to influence federal policy, including Pentagon budget cuts that could impact U.S. support for Ukraine.
Trump’s own stance on the conflict remains ambiguous. While he promises to broker peace, he has avoided committing to Ukraine’s victory, raising fears that any deal may favor Russia and embolden autocratic regimes. Congressional leaders warn that pressuring Ukraine into an unfavorable agreement would set a dangerous precedent for international norms.
Musk’s dual interests in China, an ally of Russia, and his dependence on U.S. government contracts complicate the dynamics further. Critics argue his rise reflects unchecked private influence on public policy, amplified by an administration with minimal regard for oversight or ethical guardrails.
As Ukraine braces for intensified Russian aggression ahead of Trump’s inauguration, Kyiv faces a precarious moment. Analysts suggest Musk’s waning favor with Trump could mitigate his influence, but for now, his position casts a shadow over U.S. support for Ukraine.