By Karim Hammam
Russian President Vladimir Putin described Elon Musk as a "real genius" on Wednesday, revealing the two are in "close contact" regarding satellite technology. The remarks came during the Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow.
Putin praises Musk at summit
During the summit, Putin discussed Russia's own satellite internet project, Rassvet, which aims to provide internet connections via 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."
Coordinating satellite constellations
Putin emphasized the importance of coordination between Russia and Musk's SpaceX to prevent interference between Rassvet and Starlink satellites in orbit. Starlink, part of SpaceX, has launched roughly 13,000 satellites, while online trackers show only a couple of dozen Rassvet satellites currently in orbit. The Russian Embassy in South Africa described Rassvet as "Russia's Starlink alternative" and noted it marks the country's first steps in this field.
US-Russia space ties amid broader thaw
The comments come as the US and Russia appear to be growing closer, despite the ongoing war in Ukraine. Ukraine has relied on Starlink for military communications, but recently suffered connectivity problems that Musk acknowledged were intentional. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump recently struck a deal with Russia to import diesel, waived certain sanctions, and secured the release of a US citizen from Russian custody.
Musk's background and political ties
Musk, born in South Africa and later a citizen of Canada and the United States, bases his ventures — including Tesla, SpaceX, and Starlink — primarily in California and Texas. The billionaire has been a major political ally and financial supporter of Trump and other Republican politicians.
