Russian President Vladimir Putin described Elon Musk as a "real genius" on Wednesday, revealing that he and the SpaceX boss are in close contact about satellite technology. The remarks were made during the Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow.
Putin discussed Russia's satellite internet project, Rassvet, which aims to provide internet connections via satellites. "We are in close contact with our American partners, including Mr. Musk," Putin said, according to a translation by the BBC. He emphasized the importance of communication between Russia and Musk to ensure that Russia's Rassvet and SpaceX's 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," Putin added.
SpaceX has launched approximately 13,000 Starlink satellites, while Rassvet has a much smaller number of satellites currently in orbit, according to online trackers. The Russian Embassy in South Africa referred to Rassvet as "Russia's Starlink alternative" and noted it represents the country's initial steps in this domain.
These comments come as Russia and the United States navigate complex geopolitical relations. Ukraine has utilized Starlink internet for its defense efforts, though the service experienced connectivity issues last week, which Musk acknowledged SpaceX intentionally caused.
Musk, born in South Africa, later immigrated to Canada before establishing his ventures, including SpaceX and Starlink, in the United States. He has been a notable financial supporter of Republican politicians, including former President Donald Trump.