Russian President Vladimir Putin called Elon Musk a “real genius” on October 28, saying the two are in close contact over satellite technology.
The comments came during the Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow, where Putin discussed Russia’s satellite internet project, Rassvet, which provides internet access through satellites.
“He’s a genius, a real genius,” Putin said of Musk, according to a BBC translation. “We are in close contact with our American partners, including Mr. Musk.”
Putin said it was important for Russia to maintain contact with Musk to ensure that Rassvet and Starlink satellites do not “interfere with each other in orbit”. “We and our American partners value this mutually, and despite all the political questions, we are working hard,” he added.
Starlink has launched around 13,000 satellites, according to the company. In comparison, only a few dozen Rassvet satellites are currently in orbit, according to online satellite trackers.
The richest and arguably most high-profile entrepreneur of the modern age, Elon Musk has become an increasingly controversial figure. Since his 2022 takeover of X, the multibillionaire has faced intense public scrutiny. Millions of users got a front-row seat to his every move, from laying off thousands of employees to unsuspending accounts that spread misinformation and hate speech. Later, his involvement with the US government garnered immense criticism, especially after the cost-cutting drives across various departments when he led DOGE.
Click through the following gallery to learn more about Musk's journey from business to politics, and why it’s been causing such a stir.