President Donald Trump and Tesla CEO Elon Musk speak to the press at the White House on March 11
Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images
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Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images
Elon Musk is scheduled to visit the Pentagon on Friday, sparking controversy over his access to sensitive government information.
According to The New York Times, Musk is expected to receive a briefing on U.S. plans for potential conflict with China, including classified military strategies.
The briefing reportedly includes details on how the U.S. would respond to a threat from China, with various military options presented to decision-makers.
President Trump and his administration have refuted the claims, stating that the meeting is focused on innovation and production efficiencies, not top-secret war plans.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth clarified on X that the meeting is not about China war plans, but rather about collaboration and technological advancements.
Musk also criticized The New York Times on X, accusing them of spreading false information and threatening legal action against Pentagon leakers.
The Pentagon briefing, set to take place in a secure facility known as “the tank,” will involve Adm. Samuel Paparo virtually from Sri Lanka.
Officials have confirmed that the briefing will only include unclassified information despite its focus on China.
Musk’s access to sensitive information through the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has raised concerns about national security implications and potential conflicts of interest.
His business ties to both the Pentagon and China add another layer of complexity to the situation, especially considering SpaceX’s involvement in military satellite launches.
SpaceX’s Starlink network is crucial for U.S. and Ukraine’s military communication, highlighting Musk’s significant influence in the defense sector.
NPR’s Tom Bowman contributed to this report.
