President Donald Trump addressed the controversy surrounding Elon Musk’s visit to the Pentagon on Friday, denying reports that the billionaire entrepreneur was scheduled to receive a classified briefing on U.S. military plans concerning China. Trump clarified that Musk’s purpose at the Pentagon was focused on DOGE and innovation, not China or military strategy.
Trump’s Denial of Classified Briefing
While speaking with reporters in the Oval Office, Trump, accompanied by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, dismissed a report from The New York Times suggesting that Musk’s visit was linked to discussions about potential military conflict with China. “He’s there for DOGE, not there for China,” Trump stated firmly, emphasizing that any mention of China would cause Musk to leave the room.
Trump further criticized the report as “fake news” and reiterated that Musk’s meeting at the Pentagon was centered around business-related topics, specifically the cryptocurrency DOGE and innovations within the defense industry. Hegseth also denied any military discussions, calling the conversation “great” but informal, focusing on efficiencies and improvements.
Musk’s Relationship with the Pentagon
Musk’s meeting at the Pentagon reportedly involved discussions with Defense Department officials, including Hegseth and Indo-Pacific Command Admiral Sam Paparo. While the meeting touched on China’s regional threat, it did not include any classified war plans. The billionaire, who has significant contracts with the Pentagon, has become a key figure in the government’s efforts to cut costs and streamline defense operations.
“We don’t want to share secret war plans with anybody, even a helpful businessperson,” Trump remarked, acknowledging Musk’s contribution in reducing government inefficiencies, fraud, and abuse. However, Trump pointed out that Musk’s business dealings in China could make him vulnerable to outside influences, even as he continues his work with the Pentagon.
The Role of Musk in U.S. Defense Innovation
Musk’s influence within the federal government, particularly in defense contracting, continues to grow. With billions of dollars in Pentagon contracts, his presence at the Pentagon symbolizes the increasing collaboration between private industry and the U.S. military. Trump stressed that Musk’s role in uncovering wasteful practices within government spending has been invaluable, but he remains cautious about sharing sensitive military information.
Musk’s Access to Top Officials
Musk’s visit to the Pentagon came just two days before Hegseth’s planned trip to Asia, which will include stops in Japan, the Philippines, Guam, and Hawaii. The visit highlighted Musk’s extraordinary access to government leaders, particularly within defense and national security.
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