Washington: US President Donald Trump denied reports Thursday that suggested he plans to destroy Elon Musk's companies by removing government subsidies. "Everyone is stating that I will destroy Elon's companies by taking away some, if not all, of the large scale subsidies he receives from the US Government. This is not so," Trump wrote on Truth Social. He emphasized his support for business success, stating that he wants all businesses to "thrive."
According to Anadolu Agency, Trump expressed his vision for business prosperity. "I want Elon, and all businesses within our Country, to THRIVE, in fact, THRIVE like never before," he said, adding that business success would benefit America. Trump highlighted that records are being set every day and expressed his desire to maintain this trajectory.
The comments come in the wake of a query about a recent agreement between Musk's artificial intelligence company xAI and the Pentagon. White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt mentioned that she believed Trump did not support federal agencies contracting with Musk's companies. She indicated the need to discuss with the president the possibility of canceling existing contracts.
Trump's statement follows a significant clash with Musk, which has strained their previously cooperative relationship. The conflict revolves around Trump's tax and domestic policy bill, criticized by Musk as a "disgusting abomination." Musk has also made personal criticisms of Trump, suggesting impeachment and announcing the formation of a new "America Party."
In response, Trump threatened to cancel government contracts with Musk's ventures, including SpaceX, expressing his disappointment in Musk, who had previously supported Trump's 2024 reelection campaign and led the Department of Government Efficiency.