The Trump Administration Leaned on African Countries. The Goal: Get Business for Elon Musk.

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Key Report Findings:

– In a series of events documented via records and interviews, the State Department engaged in a prolonged effort to persuade a small African nation to support Musk’s satellite internet company.
– The U.S. government, in collaboration with Starlink executives, embarked on a global initiative to boost Musk’s business presence in developing countries.
– These actions raised concerns among diplomats due to the tactics employed and the primary beneficiary of the efforts.

The story revolves around Sharon Cromer, the U.S. ambassador to Gambia, who visited a Cabinet minister in the country to discuss the approval of Elon Musk’s Starlink company to operate in Gambia. The U.S. government, working closely with Starlink, applied pressure on Gambian officials to expedite the licensing process, with Cromer even hinting at the potential consequences of non-cooperation.

The article details how the Trump administration leveraged its foreign policy to benefit Musk’s business interests, prompting diplomatic efforts in various developing nations. The State Department’s interventions on behalf of Starlink were attributed to the company’s potential competitive edge in the satellite internet market.

The aggressive campaign led by the U.S. government and Starlink in Gambia, among other countries, raised ethical concerns among former ambassadors and State Department officials. The narrative illustrates the power dynamics at play, highlighting Musk’s significant influence and the controversial tactics employed to secure licenses for Starlink in various countries.

The article underscores the strategic importance of Africa for Musk’s Starlink venture and the competitive landscape in the satellite internet market. It also sheds light on the challenges faced by local authorities and the broader implications of Musk’s expanding business empire.

As the saga unfolds in Gambia and beyond, the involvement of the U.S. government in advancing Musk’s interests has drawn scrutiny, with concerns raised about the potential impact on diplomatic relations and perceptions of American foreign policy.