A senior Ukrainian official has confirmed that Elon Musk, the world's richest man, was present during a phone call between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President-elect Donald Trump after the election. Another high-ranking Ukrainian source also revealed that Musk was physically present with Trump during the call, with Zelensky thanking him for his Starlink satellites. While Musk's involvement highlights his close ties to the upcoming US president, it was mainly a greeting conversation with Trump being the main focus.
Elon Musk's Involvement in Post-Election Call between Trump and Zelensky
On November 10, 2022, a senior Ukrainian official confirmed that Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, was present during a phone call between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and then-US President-elect Donald Trump in 2016.
Background:
Following the 2016 US presidential election, Trump and his team faced scrutiny for alleged ties to Russia. One line of investigation focused on a phone call that Trump had with Zelensky on July 25, 2019, in which he pressured Zelensky to investigate his political rival, Joe Biden. This call ultimately led to Trump's first impeachment.
Musk's Presence:
According to the Ukrainian official, Musk was physically present with Trump during the call, which reportedly took place on November 19, 2016. Musk was said to be present on a speakerphone, with Zelensky thanking him for his company's Starlink satellites.
Significance:
Musk's involvement in this call highlights his close ties to the Trump administration. The call also raises questions about whether Musk may have had prior knowledge of any potential interference by Trump in the 2016 election.
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