In a meeting at the Oval Office, the 47th U.S. president acknowledged that Elon Musk should not be granted access to classified war plans.
Donald Trump admits Elon Musk ‘shouldn’t receive war plans’ in awkward comments during Oval Office meeting
Trump concerns over Elon Musk’s Pentagon involvement
Donald Trump has admitted that billionaire Elon Musk will face restrictions when it comes to classified war plans.
During an Oval Office meeting on March 21, Trump addressed growing concerns about Musk’s involvement in government affairs.
He stated that due to Musk’s business interests, particularly in China, some information would be withheld from him.
Why Musk won’t have access to classified military plans
Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, also leads the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Despite his influence, Trump made it clear that he wouldn’t have access to sensitive war strategies.
The president explained: “Elon has businesses in China. And he would be susceptible, perhaps, to that.”
While, Tesla has been expanding its production and sales in China. According to reports from Time, this creates potential conflicts of interest.
Trump’s comments suggest he acknowledges the risks of Musk balancing corporate ventures with government responsibilities.
The Oval Office meeting and the $20 billion fighter jet deal
Trump’s remarks came as he discussed national security matters, including the development of the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) fighter jet.
The administration awarded Boeing a $20 billion contract to bring the aircraft to life.
While addressing military advancements, Trump dismissed the idea of Musk being briefed on potential war strategies, particularly regarding China.
Rising global tensions and nuclear stockpiling fears
The discussion about war plans arose as fears of a global conflict continue to grow.
Recent reports indicate that several nations, including China, Pakistan, India, Israel, and North Korea, have been increasing their nuclear arsenals.
Additionally, Taiwan has announced a $100 billion investment in the United States through its leading semiconductor company, TSMC.
While, critics speculate this could be a strategic move to secure U.S. protection amid rising tensions with China.
Meanwhile, Russia and Ukraine recently agreed to a 30-day ceasefire. However, European officials remain concerned about a possible Russian escalation.
Musk’s visit to the Pentagon and defense job cuts
Despite concerns over Musk’s political influence, he visited the Pentagon on March 21 to discuss further budget cuts within DOGE.
A senior defense official confirmed that between 50,000 and 60,000 civilian jobs would be eliminated from the Department of Defense.
When asked about his role, Musk stated he was willing to do “anything that could be helpful.”
The F-47 fighter jet and America’s military dominance
As part of the Oval Office briefing, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Air Force Chief of Staff General David Allvin introduced the new fighter jet.
The aircraft, named the F-47, represents the future of aerial warfare. Hegseth emphasized that the jet’s deployment sends a clear message to both allies and adversaries.
“We’re not going anywhere,” Hegseth stated. “This fleet will ensure the United States projects power globally for generations to come.”
While Musk remains one of Trump’s closest allies, the president has drawn a firm line on national security.
With mounting concerns over global conflicts and increasing military investments,
Trump’s decision to restrict Musk’s access to classified war plans highlights the administration’s cautious approach to balancing business and government affairs.