The article discusses Elon Musk’s significant influence on U.S. foreign policy through his roles at SpaceX and DOGE, particularly after he restricted Ukraine’s access to Starlink satellites in late 2022. The Pentagon’s inability to enforce a breach of contract led to unconventional direct negotiations between Musk and senior officials. Musk’s position allowed him to leverage U.S. foreign aid and diplomatic channels to benefit his business interests, specifically in securing Starlink licenses globally, particularly in developing nations like Gambia and Lesotho.
This intertwining of Musk’s private interests with state power raises concerns about accountability and the blurring of public and private authority. Unlike traditional heads of state accountable to the public, Musk—though influential—operates within a framework where corporate governance limits accountability. Activism against Musk, such as the “Tesla Takedown” protests, highlighted his role in foreign policy, aiming to leverage public sentiment as a form of resistance. However, these protests faced severe backlash and drew attention to the profound power dynamic in corporate oligarchy, where private interests can shape government actions with limited accountability.
The article concludes that while some efforts to challenge Musk’s influence existed, they ultimately provided inadequate means to address the broader implications of private power over public policy, leaving a substantial gap in accountability that continues to impact global politics and humanitarian concerns.
