Putin praises Musk as genius, cites satellite coordination with SpaceX

SpaceX has launched approximately 13,000 satellites into orbit, a figure that dwarfs the current Russian constellation. Vladimir Putin highlighted this disparity while discussing Rassvet, the state-backed satellite internet initiative, at the Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow on Wednesday. He characterized the scale of the American network as a benchmark for Russian efforts.

Putin described Elon Musk as a real genius during the summit proceedings. He stated that Moscow maintains close contact with American partners, specifically naming the SpaceX founder. The Russian president explained that these communications are necessary to prevent Rassvet and Starlink satellites from interfering with one another in orbit. He noted that both sides value this technical cooperation despite ongoing political tensions.

The size gap between the two systems is stark. Online satellite trackers indicate that only a couple of dozen Rassvet satellites are currently in orbit. In contrast, Starlink operates a fleet of roughly 13,000 units. The Russian Embassy in South Africa described Rassvet as Russia's Starlink alternative on Wednesday, adding that it marks only the country's first steps in this field. The embassy confirmed that Russia maintains close contacts with the US on space matters, including with Musk.

The remarks occur as diplomatic signals between Washington and Moscow suggest warming relations. This shift happens just before the fifth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Ukraine has depended on Starlink connectivity to coordinate its military operations against Russian forces. Last week, Ukrainian troops experienced sudden connectivity issues, which Musk admitted were caused intentionally by SpaceX.

Recent events further indicate a softening of ties. Earlier this month, President Donald Trump announced a deal to import Russian diesel to lower domestic gas prices affected by the US war with Iran. Trump subsequently waived certain sanctions against Russia that were scheduled to take effect. Shortly after, a US citizen was released from Russian custody. US envoy Steve Witkoff referred to Putin as a humanitarian in connection with that release.

Musk, who was born in South Africa and moved to Canada before settling in the United States, operates major businesses in America. His companies, including Tesla, SpaceX, and Starlink, are based primarily in California and Texas. He has served as a prominent political ally and financier for Trump and other Republican politicians.