In a recent Oval Office address, President Donald Trump refuted claims that billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk received a briefing regarding the United States' military strategies concerning a potential conflict with China. Trump emphasized the sensitivity of such information, stating, "I wouldn’t want to show it to anybody, especially in relation to a possible war with China."


His remarks followed reports suggesting Musk attended a Pentagon meeting on March 21, where he reportedly spoke with Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth for over an hour. Responding to a New York Times article that Trump labeled as "fake news," the president underscored that Pentagon officials also rejected the idea that Musk was briefed on military plans.


Trump pointed out Musk’s significant business ventures in China, raising concerns about a potential conflict of interest if he were privy to military strategies. "You certainly wouldn't disclose such information to a businessman who plays a vital role for us," he stated, defending his stance against the allegations.

Musk, who is currently serving as a special government employee, holds a top-secret security clearance, which allows him certain access within government operations. The Pentagon has indicated collaboration with Musk’s operations to uncover fraud and inefficiencies within the department.


Additionally, Musk remains a key player in defense contracts, with SpaceX being awarded $733 million in launch contracts by the US Space Force in late 2024.