Donald Trump put Elon Musk on phone with Ukraine's Zelenskyy during congratulatory call

Musk, a prominent figure in Trump's circle, has played a crucial role in maintaining Ukraine’s communication capabilities via his Starlink satellite network since Russia’s invasion.

President-elect Donald Trump, on Friday, took a congratulatory call from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, during which he handed the phone to Elon Musk, according to sources familiar with the discussion. Musk, a prominent figure in Trump's circle, has played a crucial role in maintaining Ukraine’s communication capabilities via his Starlink satellite network since Russia’s invasion. Zelensky reportedly expressed appreciation to Musk for his support.

The discussion, held at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate, was described as positive, with no confirmed changes in US policy toward Ukraine under the incoming administration. Trump has indicated he aims to end the conflict quickly, which some see as a signal for potential concessions to Russia - a view that diverges from Zelensky’s firm stance on Ukraine’s sovereignty.

Trump’s ties with Musk, including financial support from Musk during the presidential campaign and shared policy goals around government efficiency, have fueled speculation about Musk’s potential role in the Trump administration, though Trump’s team has yet to make formal announcements.

Zelensky’s call was one of many Trump has received from global leaders following his election win. Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who also called Trump recently, noted Musk’s presence during his conversation with the president-elect. The call highlights Musk’s growing influence in international affairs and in the Trump administration’s network, which could raise questions about conflicts of interest given SpaceX’s extensive government contracts.

Musk’s support for Ukraine through Starlink and his close proximity to the incoming administration underscore his strategic importance to both Trump and Zelensky, adding a notable layer to the dynamics of U.S.-Ukraine relations. This conversation was first reported by Axios and later confirmed by other sources.

(With inputs from agencies)