Trump and Musk Deny Access to U.S. Military Plans Amid Rising…

Donald Trump denied allegations of providing Elon Musk access to military war plans against China during Musk’s Pentagon visit. Concerns linger about Musk’s access due to his companies’ involvement in military contracts and interests in China. Meanwhile, Taiwan prepares for potential threats from China and commits to increasing its defense budget.

Former President Donald Trump has refuted allegations that he provided Elon Musk access to the United States military’s confidential plans regarding any prospective conflict with China. This denial came as Mr. Musk visited the Pentagon on Friday, where he was reportedly set to receive a briefing in a highly secure area known as the “Tank.” Concerns about his access arise from SpaceX and Tesla’s significant roles as U.S. military suppliers while simultaneously holding financial interests in China.

In response to reports from the New York Times, Mr. Trump labeled the story as “fake news,” asserting that “China will not even be mentioned or discussed” during Mr. Musk’s Pentagon visit. Mr. Musk echoed this sentiment, dismissing the report as “pure propaganda” and threatening repercussions against those he accused of disseminating false information.

The Pentagon confirmed Mr. Musk’s visit, stating, “The defense department is excited to welcome Elon Musk to the Pentagon on Friday. He was invited by Secretary Hegseth and is just visiting.” This development comes amidst growing apprehensions regarding a potential Chinese assault on Taiwan within the next two years, as indicated by Taiwan’s defense ministry.

The ministry recently presented a report to lawmakers identifying 2027 as a target date for a possible invasion, amidst a military buildup by China, which includes increased readiness of aircraft and warships. Despite Taiwan’s defense minister downplaying specific timelines, it is understood that plans for Taiwan’s major live-fire drills have now earmarked a year for a potential Chinese incursion.

The implications of identifying a specific invasion date for military drills remain to be seen, particularly given budgetary constraints imposed by the opposition-controlled parliament on various military projects, such as a significant freeze on submarine and drone developments. Conversely, President Lai Ching-te emphasized the government’s commitment to enhancing the defense budget to over 3% of GDP, aiming for a comprehensive military overhaul.

Although the United States maintains no formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, it is mandated by domestic law to aid the island’s defense capabilities. Mr. Trump has previously suggested Taiwan’s defense expenditure should reach 10% of its GDP, a figure significantly higher than current U.S. and UK military spending levels.

China’s reported defense expenditure remains comparatively low at less than 2% of its GDP; however, it is notable that only the U.S. maintains a larger overall military budget. Moreover, Mr. Musk’s comments on Taiwan have previously incurred backlash in Taipei, especially his controversial suggestions regarding Taiwanese autonomy in relation to China.

Amidst these tensions, President Lai revealed the enhanced defense budget would facilitate the acquisition of advanced weaponry, including imports from America, and announced increased financial compensation for military personnel to address manpower shortages. Effective April 1, volunteer enlistees will receive a monthly allowance boost of up to NT$5,000, with combat force members seeing their allowances rise to up to NT$12,000 per month.

President Lai stated, “Let us protect the country together and ensure our daily life of freedom and democracy.” However, troubling reports indicate that early military contract opt-outs have surged from 401 in 2020 to 1,565 in 2024, presenting challenges for recruitment efforts.

In summary, former President Trump and Elon Musk have publicly denied claims regarding the accessibility of U.S. military strategies concerning China. As pending military exercises raise awareness of potential threats to Taiwan, President Lai has committed to lifting defense spending and enhancing military capabilities to bolster national security. The evolving geopolitical dynamics underscore the critical importance of preparedness amidst rising tensions in the region.

Original Source: www.telegraph.co.uk