Trump Refutes Claims of Musk’s Access to U.S. Military Plans Amid…

Donald Trump denied claims that Elon Musk accessed U.S. military plans regarding China during his Pentagon visit. Concerns about Musk’s potential access arise due to his companies’ ties with the U.S. military and interests in China. Meanwhile, Taiwan is preparing for military challenges as it boosts its defense budget and considers future threats from China.

Former President Donald Trump has refuted claims alleging that Elon Musk received access to the U.S. military’s confidential war strategies concerning China. This revelation came as Musk was scheduled for a visit to the Pentagon, where he was reportedly set to receive a briefing in the secure “Tank” conference room.

Concerns emerged regarding Musk’s potential access to vital military information, particularly due to SpaceX and Tesla’s dual role as significant military suppliers and their financial interests in China. Following the New York Times report, Trump dismissed the claims as “fake news,” asserting that discussions about China would not occur during Musk’s visit. Musk echoed this sentiment, labeling the report as “pure propaganda” and warning those leaking false information.

The Pentagon confirmed Musk’s visit, stating it was orchestrated by Secretary Hegseth and aimed solely at welcoming the billionaire entrepreneur. This visit coincides with heightened anxiety over a possible Chinese invasion of Taiwan, with Taiwanese defense officials highlighting 2027 as a critical date for potential conflict. The military build-up by China, including increasing fighter aircraft and vessels, further underlines these concerns.

Despite not officially confirming the 2027 timeline, Taiwan’s defense minister mentioned that military plans for the island’s live-fire drills now target a specific year for an anticipated invasion. Critics within the Taiwanese parliament have raised objections to military spending, indicating a freeze on submarine and drone program funding.

In light of these developments, Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te emphasized the government’s commitment to increasing defense spending to exceed 3% of GDP, up from approximately 2.45%. This pledge aims to assure the U.S. of Taiwan’s dedication to self-defense, despite the lack of formal diplomatic relations. Trump has previously commented that Taiwan should aim for a defense budget of 10% of GDP, compared to the current U.S. spending of about 3.4%.

While China’s defense budget remains below 2% of its GDP, it is matched only by the U.S. in overall military expenditure. Elon Musk has previously stirred controversy with statements addressing Taiwan and China, suggesting a scenario where Taiwan could function under a special administrative zone. In response to manpower challenges, Taiwan plans to increase military salaries and recruitment incentives, offering significant pay hikes to encourage enlistment, starting April 1, 2024.

In summary, Trump’s denial of Musk’s access to U.S. military plans highlights ongoing tensions regarding military transparency amid rising concerns over China’s intentions toward Taiwan. Musk’s Pentagon visit, coupled with Taiwan’s defense budget pledges and military expansions, indicates a complex geopolitical landscape. Both Taiwan’s commitment to military readiness and the implications of U.S. and Taiwanese relations against the backdrop of Chinese military ambitions are significant factors in future developments.

Original Source: www.telegraph.co.uk