▫️On July 7, 2025, Errol Musk, father of Elon Musk, appeared on the Russian propaganda project “Central Channel” on VK Video, stating that he would like to visit the occupied regions of Ukraine, referring to them as “parts of Russia that have reunited with the Russian Federation.” He also remarked that “artificial borders that were drawn are meaningless,” echoing Russian propaganda narratives about the so-called “reunification” of the occupied Donbas territories. Errol Musk advised his son Elon to visit Russia to “see the real situation.”
▫️This statement is an example of a complete misunderstanding of the reality in the occupied territories. Judging by his words, Errol Musk relies solely on the aggressor’s ideology, ignoring the facts of occupation, violations of international law, and the suffering of the local population. His claims about “reunification” parrot Kremlin narratives that justify the annexation of Ukrainian territories, disregarding the illegality of the so-called “referendums” of 2014 and 2022, conducted under the threat of guns. Such a stance is not only misguided but also dangerous, as it may contribute to a distorted perception of the war in Ukraine in the United States.
▫️Errol Musk, who is not an expert in geopolitics or international law, demonstrates weakness by relying on simplistic and manipulative narratives promoted by Russian propaganda. His public statements, given his connection to his famous son, may influence public opinion in the U.S., amplifying anti-Ukrainian sentiments. This is particularly dangerous in the context of political support for Ukraine, as such remarks could fuel isolationist tendencies or doubts about the necessity of providing Ukraine with military and economic aid.
▫️In the U.S., where Elon Musk holds significant influence as a businessman and political figure, his father’s statements could complicate efforts to build consensus on supporting Ukraine, which is critical for its fight against the aggressor.
▫️The situation in the temporarily occupied territories of Donbas is a complex crisis encompassing humanitarian, economic, environmental, and cultural dimensions. Forced passportization, economic plunder, environmental degradation, and Russification create conditions where the population loses basic rights and the ability to preserve its identity. The occupation policy aims to isolate the region from Ukraine and integrate it into the Russian sphere, accompanied by repression and impoverishment.
▫️Errol Musk’s statement about “reunified” territories only underscores the danger of Russian propaganda narratives spreading in Western public discourse. His words, which ignore the reality of occupation and the suffering of Ukrainians, are an example of uncritical acceptance of the aggressor’s ideology, potentially leading to negative consequences.
