Elon Musk’s Starlink: U.S. State Dept Accused of Pushing for Approvals in Africa Under Trump’s Influence

A recent report alleges that the U.S. State Department has been aggressively intervening in foreign countries to secure approvals for Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet service, particularly in Africa. This has raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the use of U.S. foreign policy to benefit Musk's business empire.

According to a report by ProPublica, State Department officials, both in Washington and in Gambia, have been actively pushing for the West African nation to approve a license for Starlink. The article highlights a February meeting where U.S. Ambassador to Gambia, Sharon Cromer, reportedly pressured Gambian Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Lamin Jabbi, to approve Starlink. Jallow, Jabbi’s top deputy, stated that Cromer issued a thinly veiled suggestion related to funds, stating that if Starlink doesn’t get its license, their financial aid may be cut. This has resulted in accusations of strong-arming the country into yielding.

The State Department's involvement reportedly intensified after Donald Trump's return to the White House, aligning with Musk's increasing influence. The report suggests that Musk's close ties to the administration may be playing a significant role in securing Starlink licenses in Africa. It also cited an example of the Gulf nation also approving the use of Starlink after Musk attended an investors' conference in Saudi Arabia with Trump.

The State Department has defended its actions, stating thatStarlinkis an American-made product that is helping remote areas gain internet connectivity. They argue that any patriotic American should want to see an American company succeed on the global stage, especially when competing with Chinese competitors.

Critics view these interventions as crony capitalism, with the U.S. government acting in favor of a politically connected billionaire. They highlight the alarming departure from standard diplomatic practice, emphasizing the potential conflicts of interest and ethical concerns.

Further reports indicate that the Trump administration has been leveraging tariffs to encourage countries to approve Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite service. In Lesotho, for example, a Starlink distribution deal was reached shortly after Trump announced tariffs on goods from the country. This raises questions about the extent to which economic leverage is being used to advance Musk's business interests.

Internal government messages reveal that embassies and the State Department have been actively pushing nations to clear hurdles for Starlink. The State Department has also encouraged countries worldwide to embrace Starlink in an attempt combat Russian and Chinese competition.

Musk has faced controversy over regulatory flexibility and the potential for wielding outsize influence. His success largely depends on securing licenses for the service.

These allegations raise important questions about the appropriate role of government in supporting private businesses and the potential for conflicts of interest when political influence and commercial interests intersect. Is this merely strategic advocacy for an American company, or is it an instance of crony capitalism that undermines fair competition and ethical standards?

What are your thoughts on the U.S. government's involvement in promoting Starlink's expansion? Share your opinions in the comments below!

• Donald Trump
• Elon Musk
• Starlink