Importance Score: 45 / 100 🔵
Elon Musk Reportedly Barred from China Meeting by Trump Over White House Concerns
Elon Musk was reportedly prevented from attending a highly classified meeting concerning China following intervention from former President Donald Trump, after the tech entrepreneur allegedly displeased White House staff. According to sources, the then-President expressed anger upon learning of the Tesla CEO’s intended participation, instructing aides to ensure Musk was excluded from the sensitive briefing.
Pentagon Investigation Launched into Meeting Leak
Following the incident, it is understood that two Pentagon officials were suspended by then-Defense Secretary, reportedly in connection with an internal inquiry to determine who disclosed information about the planned meeting to the billionaire co-founder of Tesla. Despite the intervention, the official indicated that Mr. Trump “remains fond of” Mr. Musk, while also suggesting the existence of “certain boundaries”.
Concerns Over Musk’s China Ties
The official further elaborated, stating that Musk‘s extensive business operations and amicable relations within China were factors in deeming his presence at the briefing “inappropriate.” Tesla maintains a significant manufacturing presence in Shanghai, and the world’s second-largest economy constitutes a substantial portion of the electric vehicle manufacturer’s revenue.
Initial Reports and Trump’s Denial
The matter initially surfaced in March when reports indicated Mr. Musk was scheduled to receive a Pentagon briefing regarding military strategy concerning a hypothetical conflict between the United States and China.
Trump Dismisses Report as “Fake News”
Former President Trump publicly dismissed these reports as “fake news” originating from what he termed the “struggling” New York Times. In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Mr. Trump asserted the reports were “incorrect” and “ridiculous,” claiming that China was not intended to be a topic of discussion at any meeting attended by Elon Musk. He further denounced the media for fabricating “lies” and insisted the story was “completely untrue.”
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Musk Attended Different Pentagon Meeting
Sources suggest Mr. Trump’s public denial followed alterations to the original briefing plans for Mr. Musk. While Mr. Musk reportedly did attend a meeting at the Pentagon, it was subsequently clarified that the discussion did not pertain to China.
Trump’s “Susceptible” Remark
Addressing reporters, Mr. Trump commented that Mr. Musk “would be susceptible, perhaps,” in connection to the issue, while maintaining his stance that the initial story was fabricated.
Musk’s Reaction and Demand for Action
Following the New York Times report, the technology executive expressed his intention on social media platform X, formerly Twitter, to pursue legal action against individuals at the Pentagon responsible for leaking what he described as “maliciously false information.”
Musk’s Warning of Investigation
Mr. Musk issued a warning, stating, “They will be found,” indicating his resolve to identify those responsible for the alleged leaks.