Putin Calls Musk a 'Genius' and Confirms Cooperation with Him

Russian President Vladimir Putin described American businessman Elon Musk as a "genius," affirming the continuation of close cooperation between Moscow and its American partners, including Musk, despite politically charged issues between the two countries.

Putin's remarks came on Wednesday during his inspection of an exhibition showcasing advanced Russian solutions in key economic and social sectors, attended by several African leaders on the sidelines of the third "Russia-Africa" summit.

During the event, Russian Minister of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media Maksut Shadayev briefed Putin on efforts by Russian companies to build digital infrastructure based on sovereign local solutions.

He cited the Russian space communications system "Rasvet," which includes more than 30 satellites in orbit and is considered the Russian counterpart to the "Starlink" system owned by American company SpaceX, which is owned by Musk.

Commenting on the Russian system, Putin said: "This is just our first step, and I would like to draw attention to that."

The Russian president described Musk as a "genius person," noting that he has more than 5,000 satellites of this type in orbit.

He added that Russia is still at the beginning of the road but takes pride in starting the development of this technology through independent local efforts by Russian specialists.

Putin emphasized that Russia maintains close contacts with its American partners, including Musk, despite all politically charged issues between the two countries, stressing the importance of not hindering each other's work in space orbits and adhering to discipline and order.

He added: "We and our American partners are all keen on this, and we work together closely, despite politically charged issues, whether through Roscosmos or other institutions."

Concluding his remarks, Putin said: "We have only taken the first step, but taking this step itself is important. Quality already exists, and the task now is to move from quality to quantity."

Russia is working to expand its "Rasvet" satellite network, which will be a competitor to "Starlink" satellites.

Earlier this October, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin announced that the Russian "Rasvet" satellite constellation, which orbits in low Earth orbit, includes more than 30 satellites, explaining that it is capable of providing ultra-fast internet service throughout the country.

Moscow hosts the third summit and the "Russia-Africa" Economic and Humanitarian Forum on October 28 and 29, with the participation of 48 African countries and the attendance of heads of state from 22 nations.