Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Tesla CEO Elon Musk on Thursday in Washington, where the two leaders discussed a broad range of topics, including space exploration, mobility and technological innovation. Watch this report for more details!

Indian PM Modi meets Elon Musk in Washington to discuss space and technology

Hours before his discussions with the US president, Prime Minister Modi met with Tesla CEO Elon Musk at Blair House, where they discussed issues including space, mobility technology, and innovation. India's Foreign Ministry said their discussion also touched on opportunities to deepen cooperation in emerging technologies, entrepreneurship, and good governance.

PM Modi's US visit: PM Modi & Musk discuss space & technology

US President Donald Trump believes Elon Musk met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi because he wanted to do business in India.&nbsp;
Trump, after announcing "reciprocal tariffs" on Thursday (Feb 13) was answering the questions of reporters.&nbsp;
The US president stressed that "India is a very hard place to do business in because of the tariffs".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musks-kids-take-the-limelight-as-he-meets-pm-modi-in-us-see-pics-here-8719191">Elon Musk's kids take the limelight as he meets PM Modi in US | See pics HERE</a>
"They have the highest tariffs...It's a hard place to do business. I would imagine he met possibly because he is running a company, he is doing this as something that he has felt strongly about for a long time," Trump said.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Journalist: Did Elon Musk meet with Prime Minister Modi as an American CEO, or as a representative of the US govt? President Trump: I don&rsquo;t know. They met, and I assume he wants to do business in India. But India is a very hard place to do business in because of the tariffs... <a href="https://t.co/rAsyUOfTRm">pic.twitter.com/rAsyUOfTRm</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1890130993694023919?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
Trump also announced reciprocal tariffs the same day before his meeting with Indian PM Modi.&nbsp;
In an escalation on trade issues, Trump further said that whatever countries charge the US, America will charge the same, "no more, no less".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-us-visit-live-updates-president-trump-to-host-dinner-for-indian-pm-at-white-house-full-schedule-8718153">PM Modi US visit Live: Trump imposes 'reciprocal tariffs', says 'India has the most'</a>
For example, if India imposes a 25 per cent tariff on US autos, Washington will have a 25 per cent tariff as well on imports of autos from India, explained a Nomura report this week.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Tesla CEO Elon Musk on Thursday (Feb 13) at the Blair House in Washington DC.&nbsp;
Musk, who heads the Donald Trump administration's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), was accompanied by his three children. He also presented PM Modi with a special gift before the discussion.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-has-more-than-nearly-any-other-country-trump-imposes-reciprocal-tariffs-ahead-of-meeting-pm-modi-8719155">'India has more than nearly any other country': Trump imposes 'reciprocal tariffs' ahead of meeting with PM Modi</a>
Taking to his official X handle, PM Modi said that he had a good meeting with Musk, where he discussed issues such as space, mobility, technology, and innovation.
"Had a very good meeting with Elon Musk in Washington DC. We discussed various issues, including those he is passionate about such as space, mobility, technology and innovation. I talked about India&rsquo;s efforts towards reform and furthering &lsquo;Minimum Government, Maximum Governance,&rsquo;" PM Modi wrote on X.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-modi-to-discuss-defence-trade-and-critical-technologies-key-announcements-expected-8719059">Trump, Modi to discuss defence, trade, and critical technologies; key announcements expected</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: "They have the highest tariffs. It's a hard place to do business. I would imagine he met possibly because he is running a company," Trump said.

US President Donald Trump believes Elon Musk met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi because he wanted to do business in India. Trump, after announcing "reciprocal tariffs" on Thursday (Feb 13) was answering the questions of reporters. The US president stressed that "India is a very hard place to do business in because of the tariffs". Also read: Elon Musk's kids take the limelight as he meets PM Modi in US | See pics HERE "They have the highest tariffs...It's a hard place to do business. I would imagine he met possibly because he is running a company, he is doing this as something that he has felt strongly about for a long time," Trump said. Journalist: Did Elon Musk meet with Prime Minister Modi as an American CEO, or as a representative of the US govt? President Trump: I don’t know. They met, and I assume he wants to do business in India. But India is a very hard place to do business in because of the tariffs... pic.twitter.com/rAsyUOfTRm — WION (@WIONews) February 13, 2025 Trump also announced reciprocal tariffs the same day before his meeting with Indian PM Modi. In an escalation on trade issues, Trump further said that whatever countries charge the US, America will charge the same, "no more, no less". Also read: PM Modi US visit Live: Trump imposes 'reciprocal tariffs', says 'India has the most' For example, if India imposes a 25 per cent tariff on US autos, Washington will have a 25 per cent tariff as well on imports of autos from India, explained a Nomura report this week. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Tesla CEO Elon Musk on Thursday (Feb 13) at the Blair House in Washington DC. Musk, who heads the Donald Trump administration's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), was accompanied by his three children. He also presented PM Modi with a special gift before the discussion. Also read: 'India has more than nearly any other country': Trump imposes 'reciprocal tariffs' ahead of meeting with PM Modi Taking to his official X handle, PM Modi said that he had a good meeting with Musk, where he discussed issues such as space, mobility, technology, and innovation. "Had a very good meeting with Elon Musk in Washington DC. We discussed various issues, including those he is passionate about such as space, mobility, technology and innovation. I talked about India’s efforts towards reform and furthering ‘Minimum Government, Maximum Governance,’" PM Modi wrote on X. Also read: Trump, Modi to discuss defence, trade, and critical technologies; key announcements expected (With inputs from agencies)

Did Musk meet Modi as a CEO or US govt official? Trump thinks it's the former

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday met Tesla CEO and billionaire <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-prime-minister-narendra-modi-meets-spacex-ceo-elon-musk-8719029">Elon Musk</a> at Blair House in Washington DC, as he began his US visit.&nbsp;
Musk was accompanied by his family, including his three children X, Strider and Azure.&nbsp;
PM Modi was seen sharing a laugh with Musk's children.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
It was also a delight to meet Mr. <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@elonmusk</a>&rsquo;s family and to talk about a wide range of subjects! <a href="https://t.co/0WTEqBaVpT">pic.twitter.com/0WTEqBaVpT</a>
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1890099707311190205?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In a post on X, the Indian PM said, "It was also a delight to meet Mr. Elon Musk's family and to talk about a wide range of subjects!"
<img alt="Modi with Musk " src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/3788x2875/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/14/wfGS2Vs6vDUl0TtbyoLu.jpeg" style="width: 3788px;">
<img alt="Modi with Musk " src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/2502x2819/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/14/r1GiIRxijDPir0v6lVwO.jpeg" style="width: 2502px;">
<img alt="Modi with Musk " src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/2483x2955/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/14/vEEIxOWBty0zWwboI7Vo.jpeg" style="width: 2483px;">
<img alt="Modi with Musk " src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/2018x2927/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/14/zWqxnWjINWF8jkPW2Iu3.jpeg" style="width: 2018px;">
The discussions revolved around key topics, like space, innovation, artificial intelligence, and Tesla's expansion plans in India.&nbsp;
Musk's children added a unique touch to their official meeting.&nbsp;
This has become quite common as, a day before, Musk took his son X to his conference with Donald Trump.&nbsp;
Last month, he was also seen on stage with Musk at Trump's pre-inauguration rally in Washington, DC.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-us-visit-live-updates-president-trump-to-host-dinner-for-indian-pm-at-white-house-full-schedule-8718153">PM Modi US visit Live: Trump imposes 'reciprocal tariffs', says 'India has the most'</a>
Moreover, he was also present at Trump and First Lady Melania's annual New Year's Eve bash at Mar-a-Lago.&nbsp;
PM Modi is currently in the US on a two-day visit. He is scheduled to meet President Donald Trump later in the day.
He held bilateral meetings with US NSA Michael Waltz, Musk, and Vivek Ramaswamy.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-has-more-than-nearly-any-other-country-trump-imposes-reciprocal-tariffs-ahead-of-meeting-pm-modi-8719155">'India has more than nearly any other country': Trump imposes 'reciprocal tariffs' ahead of meeting with PM Modi</a>
PM Modi said that he had a good meeting with Musk where they discussed issues such as space, mobility, technology, and innovation.
"Had a very good meeting with Elon Musk in Washington DC. We discussed various issues, including those he is passionate about such as space, mobility, technology and innovation. I talked about India&rsquo;s efforts towards reform and furthering &lsquo;Minimum Government, Maximum Governance,&rsquo;" PM Modi wrote.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-meets-india-american-entrepreneur-vivek-ramaswamy-in-us-8719088">PM Modi meets Indian-American entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy in US</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: PM Modi said that he had a good meeting with Musk, where they discussed issues such as space, mobility, technology, and innovation.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday met Tesla CEO and billionaire Elon Musk at Blair House in Washington DC, as he began his US visit. Musk was accompanied by his family, including his three children X, Strider and Azure. PM Modi was seen sharing a laugh with Musk's children. It was also a delight to meet Mr. @elonmusk’s family and to talk about a wide range of subjects! pic.twitter.com/0WTEqBaVpT — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 13, 2025 In a post on X, the Indian PM said, "It was also a delight to meet Mr. Elon Musk's family and to talk about a wide range of subjects!" The discussions revolved around key topics, like space, innovation, artificial intelligence, and Tesla's expansion plans in India. Musk's children added a unique touch to their official meeting. This has become quite common as, a day before, Musk took his son X to his conference with Donald Trump. Last month, he was also seen on stage with Musk at Trump's pre-inauguration rally in Washington, DC. Also read: PM Modi US visit Live: Trump imposes 'reciprocal tariffs', says 'India has the most' Moreover, he was also present at Trump and First Lady Melania's annual New Year's Eve bash at Mar-a-Lago. PM Modi is currently in the US on a two-day visit. He is scheduled to meet President Donald Trump later in the day. He held bilateral meetings with US NSA Michael Waltz, Musk, and Vivek Ramaswamy. Also read: 'India has more than nearly any other country': Trump imposes 'reciprocal tariffs' ahead of meeting with PM Modi PM Modi said that he had a good meeting with Musk where they discussed issues such as space, mobility, technology, and innovation. "Had a very good meeting with Elon Musk in Washington DC. We discussed various issues, including those he is passionate about such as space, mobility, technology and innovation. I talked about India’s efforts towards reform and furthering ‘Minimum Government, Maximum Governance,’" PM Modi wrote. Also read: PM Modi meets Indian-American entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy in US (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk's kids steal the show as he meets PM Modi in US | See pics

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Tesla CEO Elon Musk at the Blair House in Washington. The Prime Minister held bilateral talks with US National Security Advisor, Michael Waltz, at the Blair House before meeting Elon Musk.

Indian PM Modi meets Elon Musk ahead of talks with Trump

Billionaire Elon Musk has stated that he will withdraw his $97.4 billion offer to acquire OpenAI&rsquo;s nonprofit entity if the organisation halts its planned transition to a for-profit model.
In a legal filing submitted to a California court on Wednesday, Musk&rsquo;s lawyers said, &ldquo;If OpenAI, Inc.&rsquo;s Board is prepared to preserve the charity&rsquo;s mission and stipulate to take the &lsquo;for sale&rsquo; sign off its assets by halting its conversion, Musk will withdraw the bid.&rdquo; The filing further stated that if the transition proceeds, OpenAI&rsquo;s nonprofit entity should be compensated at market value.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-send-second-batch-of-illegal-immigrants-to-india-report-8718703">US to send second batch of illegal immigrants to India: Report</a>
Earlier this week, Musk and a group of investors made an unsolicited bid to acquire OpenAI&rsquo;s controlling nonprofit entity. The stated goal of the bid is to return OpenAI to its original mission as a nonprofit research organisation focused on developing artificial intelligence for public benefit. OpenAI, which was initially founded as a nonprofit, announced last year its plans to formally transition into a for-profit company.
Musk&rsquo;s offer has been rejected by OpenAI&rsquo;s leadership. CEO Sam Altman stated in a social media post that the company is not for sale. At the artificial intelligence summit in Paris on Tuesday, OpenAI board chair Bret Taylor reiterated this stance.
<h2>Musk vs Altman</h2>
Musk and Altman were both involved in OpenAI&rsquo;s founding in 2015. However, disagreements over leadership led Musk to resign from the board in 2018. Since then, the two have been engaged in an ongoing dispute over OpenAI&rsquo;s direction and governance.
During a video address to the World Governments Summit in Dubai on Thursday, Musk criticised OpenAI&rsquo;s transition to a for-profit model. He compared it to a nonprofit dedicated to rainforest conservation becoming a commercial logging operation. Altman has previously dismissed Musk&rsquo;s legal challenges, arguing they are motivated by his competitive interests in the AI sector.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-reciprocal-tariffs-will-be-announced-thursday-8717978">&lsquo;Today is a big one&rsquo;: Trump&rsquo;s &lsquo;reciprocal tariffs&rsquo; post ahead of his meeting with PM Modi</a>
Musk has also filed a lawsuit in a California federal court seeking to block OpenAI&rsquo;s transition on various legal grounds, including breach of contract and antitrust violations. The judge overseeing the case has expressed scepticism about some of Musk&rsquo;s arguments but has not yet issued a ruling.
&nbsp;

World: Musk and Altman were both involved in OpenAI’s founding in 2015. However, disagreements over leadership led Musk to resign from the board in 2018.

Billionaire Elon Musk has stated that he will withdraw his $97.4 billion offer to acquire OpenAI’s nonprofit entity if the organisation halts its planned transition to a for-profit model. In a legal filing submitted to a California court on Wednesday, Musk’s lawyers said, “If OpenAI, Inc.’s Board is prepared to preserve the charity’s mission and stipulate to take the ‘for sale’ sign off its assets by halting its conversion, Musk will withdraw the bid.” The filing further stated that if the transition proceeds, OpenAI’s nonprofit entity should be compensated at market value. Also read: US to send second batch of illegal immigrants to India: Report Earlier this week, Musk and a group of investors made an unsolicited bid to acquire OpenAI’s controlling nonprofit entity. The stated goal of the bid is to return OpenAI to its original mission as a nonprofit research organisation focused on developing artificial intelligence for public benefit. OpenAI, which was initially founded as a nonprofit, announced last year its plans to formally transition into a for-profit company. Musk’s offer has been rejected by OpenAI’s leadership. CEO Sam Altman stated in a social media post that the company is not for sale. At the artificial intelligence summit in Paris on Tuesday, OpenAI board chair Bret Taylor reiterated this stance. Musk vs Altman Musk and Altman were both involved in OpenAI’s founding in 2015. However, disagreements over leadership led Musk to resign from the board in 2018. Since then, the two have been engaged in an ongoing dispute over OpenAI’s direction and governance. During a video address to the World Governments Summit in Dubai on Thursday, Musk criticised OpenAI’s transition to a for-profit model. He compared it to a nonprofit dedicated to rainforest conservation becoming a commercial logging operation. Altman has previously dismissed Musk’s legal challenges, arguing they are motivated by his competitive interests in the AI sector. Also read: ‘Today is a big one’: Trump’s ‘reciprocal tariffs’ post ahead of his meeting with PM Modi Musk has also filed a lawsuit in a California federal court seeking to block OpenAI’s transition on various legal grounds, including breach of contract and antitrust violations. The judge overseeing the case has expressed scepticism about some of Musk’s arguments but has not yet issued a ruling.

Elon Musk proposes exit from $97.4 billion OpenAI takeover if it remains a nonprofit

Elon Musk’s Doge team is pushing to reduce government spending by $2 trillion by 2026. A new Doge Tracker is logging the proposed cuts and tax-saving initiatives. Can Musk’s leadership achieve this ambitious goal?

Can Musk-led doge achieve $2 trillion in cuts by 2026?

Mass firings at US federal agencies have begun with terminations of probationary employees at the Department of Education and the Small Business Administration.
According to a CNN report citing federal employees and union sources, the firings mark the first under President Donald Trump's administration as Elon Musk&rsquo;s Department of Government Efficiency aims to cut the federal workforce. Until now, federal employees across government agencies have only been asked to go on paid leave.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-agencies-trump-musk-and-doge-have-been-trying-to-dismantle-and-downsize-heres-the-full-list-8714727">US agencies Trump, Musk and DOGE have been trying to dismantle and downsize. Here's the full list</a>
This comes the same day a federal judge allowed the deferred resignation programme to go into effect. Around 75,000 federal employees accepted the administration&rsquo;s offer to leave their jobs in exchange for eight months' severance.
<h2>Scores of firings at the Department of Education</h2>
The Department of Education employees were informed of their termination through a letter stating, &ldquo;The Agency finds, based on your performance, that you have not demonstrated that your further employment at the Agency would be in the public interest,&rdquo; reported CNN.
The firings at the department have affected employees across the agency, including the general counsel&rsquo;s office, the Federal Student Aid office, and the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation Services, a union source told CNN.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-grants-musk-veto-power-over-federal-hirings-orders-agencies-to-comply-with-doge-directives-in-sweeping-executive-order-8712476">Trump grants Musk veto power over federal hirings, orders agencies to comply with DOGE directives</a>
A similar letter was sent to Small Business Administration employees on Tuesday (Feb 11), informing them of their termination.&nbsp;
On Friday (Feb 7) and Monday (Feb 10), probationary employees across the agency received an unsigned draft notice of termination, according to CNN. However, another email was sent advising employees that the draft notice &ldquo;was sent in error - and as such, it is not currently in effect.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-doge-clock-understanding-the-real-time-tracker-for-government-spending-cuts-8717614">What is DOGE Clock? Understanding the real-time tracker for government spending cuts</a>
&ldquo;If you are in receipt of the initial notice, your employment has not been terminated as was erroneously indicated in the initial notice,&rdquo; the email added.
The probation employees then received the termination notice the following day, according to the union representing the employees.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musks-doge-staffer-mistakenly-given-edit-access-to-sensitive-treasury-data-8714741">&lsquo;Promptly corrected&rsquo;: Elon Musk&rsquo;s DOGE staffer was &lsquo;mistakenly&rsquo; given &lsquo;edit&rsquo; access to sensitive Treasury data</a>
The firings are part of the administration&rsquo;s plan to downsize the federal workforce. On Tuesday (Feb 11), Trump signed an executive order directing agency heads to start preparing for layoffs and expanding the role of the Department of Government Efficiency.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The firings mark the first under President Donald Trump's administration as Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency aims to cut the federal workforce.

Mass firings at US federal agencies have begun with terminations of probationary employees at the Department of Education and the Small Business Administration. According to a CNN report citing federal employees and union sources, the firings mark the first under President Donald Trump's administration as Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency aims to cut the federal workforce. Until now, federal employees across government agencies have only been asked to go on paid leave. Also read | US agencies Trump, Musk and DOGE have been trying to dismantle and downsize. Here's the full list This comes the same day a federal judge allowed the deferred resignation programme to go into effect. Around 75,000 federal employees accepted the administration’s offer to leave their jobs in exchange for eight months' severance. Scores of firings at the Department of Education The Department of Education employees were informed of their termination through a letter stating, “The Agency finds, based on your performance, that you have not demonstrated that your further employment at the Agency would be in the public interest,” reported CNN. The firings at the department have affected employees across the agency, including the general counsel’s office, the Federal Student Aid office, and the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation Services, a union source told CNN. Also read | Trump grants Musk veto power over federal hirings, orders agencies to comply with DOGE directives A similar letter was sent to Small Business Administration employees on Tuesday (Feb 11), informing them of their termination. On Friday (Feb 7) and Monday (Feb 10), probationary employees across the agency received an unsigned draft notice of termination, according to CNN. However, another email was sent advising employees that the draft notice “was sent in error - and as such, it is not currently in effect.” Also read | What is DOGE Clock? Understanding the real-time tracker for government spending cuts “If you are in receipt of the initial notice, your employment has not been terminated as was erroneously indicated in the initial notice,” the email added. The probation employees then received the termination notice the following day, according to the union representing the employees. Also read | ‘Promptly corrected’: Elon Musk’s DOGE staffer was ‘mistakenly’ given ‘edit’ access to sensitive Treasury data The firings are part of the administration’s plan to downsize the federal workforce. On Tuesday (Feb 11), Trump signed an executive order directing agency heads to start preparing for layoffs and expanding the role of the Department of Government Efficiency. (With inputs from agencies)

Mass firings begin as Trump and Musk plan to shrink US federal workforce

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to meet with tech billionaire Elon Musk during his US tour. His meeting could see discussions around Starlink’s long-awaited entry into India. Watch this report for more details!

PM Modi set to meet Elon Musk, likely to discuss Starlink's foray into India

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to meet with tech billionaire Elon Musk during his US tour. he meeting could see discussions around Starlink’s long-awaited entry into India. Watch this report for more details!

Indian PM Modi likely to meet Elon Musk during his US trip

Elon Musk, leading the DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency) under US President Donald Trump, urged that America should "delete entire agencies" as part of an effort to cut government spending by the US administration. Speaking at the World Governments Summit in Dubai via a video call on Thursday (Feb 12), the tech mogul talked about bureaucracy, AI, and US foreign policy, etc.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musks-x-to-pay-donald-trump-10-million-to-settle-twitter-ban-lawsuit-report-8715849">Elon Musk&rsquo;s X to pay Donald Trump $10 million to settle Twitter ban lawsuit: Report</a>
"We really have here rule of the bureaucracy as opposed to rule of the people&mdash;democracy," Musk said in the summit. He was seen wearing a t-shirt that has "Tech Support" written on it. Jokingly referring to himself as the "tech support" of the White House, Musk called for the removal of agencies and called them "weed".&nbsp;
"If we don't remove the roots of the weed, then it's easy for the weed to grow back," the SpaceX chief said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-agencies-trump-musk-and-doge-have-been-trying-to-dismantle-and-downsize-heres-the-full-list-8714727">US agencies Trump, Musk and DOGE have been trying to dismantle and downsize. Here's the full list</a>
This comes after Musk got the power to choose brains for the Trump administration and got access to the sensitive federal database. The X owner has further supported Trump's decision to dismantle the USAID (US Agency for International Development).
"A lot of attention has been on USAID, for example," Musk said, adding, "There's like the national endowment for Democracy. But I'm like, 'Okay, well, how much democracy have they achieved lately?"
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musks-doge-staffer-mistakenly-given-edit-access-to-sensitive-treasury-data-8714741">&lsquo;Promptly corrected&rsquo;: Elon Musk&rsquo;s DOGE staffer was &lsquo;mistakenly&rsquo; given &lsquo;edit&rsquo; access to sensitive Treasury data</a>
Musk claimed that under Trump, the US is &ldquo;less interested in interfering with the affairs of other countries". He said there are times when the US "has been kind of pushy in international affairs, which may resonate with some members of the audience".&nbsp;
&ldquo;Basically, America should mind its own business, rather than push for regime change all over the place,&rdquo; he added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-elon-musks-son-captures-the-hearts-of-netizens-as-he-accompanies-father-to-oval-office-8714268">Watch | Elon Musk's son captures the hearts of netizens as he accompanies father to Oval Office</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | TRENDING | The remark comes after Musk received the power to choose brains for the Trump administration and got access to the sensitive federal database.

Elon Musk, leading the DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency) under US President Donald Trump, urged that America should "delete entire agencies" as part of an effort to cut government spending by the US administration. Speaking at the World Governments Summit in Dubai via a video call on Thursday (Feb 12), the tech mogul talked about bureaucracy, AI, and US foreign policy, etc. Also read: Elon Musk’s X to pay Donald Trump $10 million to settle Twitter ban lawsuit: Report "We really have here rule of the bureaucracy as opposed to rule of the people—democracy," Musk said in the summit. He was seen wearing a t-shirt that has "Tech Support" written on it. Jokingly referring to himself as the "tech support" of the White House, Musk called for the removal of agencies and called them "weed". "If we don't remove the roots of the weed, then it's easy for the weed to grow back," the SpaceX chief said. Also read: US agencies Trump, Musk and DOGE have been trying to dismantle and downsize. Here's the full list This comes after Musk got the power to choose brains for the Trump administration and got access to the sensitive federal database. The X owner has further supported Trump's decision to dismantle the USAID (US Agency for International Development). "A lot of attention has been on USAID, for example," Musk said, adding, "There's like the national endowment for Democracy. But I'm like, 'Okay, well, how much democracy have they achieved lately?" Also read: ‘Promptly corrected’: Elon Musk’s DOGE staffer was ‘mistakenly’ given ‘edit’ access to sensitive Treasury data Musk claimed that under Trump, the US is “less interested in interfering with the affairs of other countries". He said there are times when the US "has been kind of pushy in international affairs, which may resonate with some members of the audience". “Basically, America should mind its own business, rather than push for regime change all over the place,” he added. Also read: Watch | Elon Musk's son captures the hearts of netizens as he accompanies father to Oval Office (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk wants removal of entire US agencies, calls them ‘weed’

According to reports, Elon Musk's social media platform X has agreed to pay President Donald Trump $10 million to settle a lawsuit over suspending his X account after the US Capitol riots. Watch in for more details!

X to pay $10 million to settle lawsuit over Jan 6 suspension: Report

Elon Musk's latest social media move has once again sent shockwaves through the cryptocurrency market. On Tuesday, Musk changed his social media X profile name, sparking a sudden surge in meme coin activity. Watch in for more details!

Elon Musk's new alias triggers wild meme coin trading

Elon Musk's social media platform will pay US President Donald Trump $10 million to settle an old lawsuit from 'Twitter' days.
The $10 million is a settlement over Twitter (now X) banning Trump after the mob attack on the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, suggested a Wall Street Journal report on Wednesday (Feb 12).
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-okay-with-russian-president-vladimir-putins-demand-to-keep-ukraine-out-of-nato-8715816">Trump 'okay' with Russian President Vladimir Putin's demand to keep Ukraine out of NATO</a>
<h2>The Trump-Twitter lawsuit</h2>
On January 6, 2021, Trump supporters in the infamous Capitol riots led an insurrection seeking to overturn the Republican's defeat to Democrat Joe Biden in the 2020 US Elections. Over 140 police officers were injured at the hands of Trump supporters wielding flagpoles, baseball bats, hockey sticks and other makeshift weapons along with tasers and canisters of bear spray.&nbsp;
The insurrection happened after a speech in which Trump made false claims about election fraud. At the time, amid concerns that he would promote further violence with bogus claims of voter fraud, Twitter, along with other social media platforms, removed Trump. This led to Trump launching his own social media platform, 'Truth Social'.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-grants-musk-veto-power-over-federal-hirings-orders-agencies-to-comply-with-doge-directives-in-sweeping-executive-order-8712476">Trump grants Musk veto power over federal hirings, orders agencies to comply with DOGE directives</a>
<h2>Musk buys Twitter</h2>
Elon Musk, who in 2022 bought Twitter and renamed it X, reinstated Trump's account and emerged as a vocal supporter. During the recent presidential election, he openly backed Trump, who has since rewarded him with a role leading the newly created Department of Government Efficiency.&nbsp;
Subsequently, in 2022, Elon Musk purchased Twitter, renaming it X. The SpaceX CEO then reinstated Trump to the platform and went on to become a major Trump supporter in the 2024 US Election race.
X has yet to comment on the settlement publicly.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-elon-musks-son-captures-the-hearts-of-netizens-as-he-accompanies-father-to-oval-office-8714268">Watch | Elon Musk's son captures the hearts of netizens as he accompanies father to Oval Office</a>
<h2>Meta paid even more settlement to Trump</h2>
Trump's grievances with social media didn&rsquo;t stop with Twitter. In January, Meta&mdash;the parent company of Facebook and Instagram&mdash;agreed to pay him $25 million to settle a similar lawsuit over censoring after the Capitol riot. News agency AFP reports that a company spokesperson has confirmed the settlement news.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World News | The settlement follows Trump's removal from Twitter over incitement concerns after the Jan 6 Capitol riots, leading him to launch Truth Social.

Elon Musk's social media platform will pay US President Donald Trump $10 million to settle an old lawsuit from 'Twitter' days. The $10 million is a settlement over Twitter (now X) banning Trump after the mob attack on the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, suggested a Wall Street Journal report on Wednesday (Feb 12). Also read | Trump 'okay' with Russian President Vladimir Putin's demand to keep Ukraine out of NATO The Trump-Twitter lawsuit On January 6, 2021, Trump supporters in the infamous Capitol riots led an insurrection seeking to overturn the Republican's defeat to Democrat Joe Biden in the 2020 US Elections. Over 140 police officers were injured at the hands of Trump supporters wielding flagpoles, baseball bats, hockey sticks and other makeshift weapons along with tasers and canisters of bear spray. The insurrection happened after a speech in which Trump made false claims about election fraud. At the time, amid concerns that he would promote further violence with bogus claims of voter fraud, Twitter, along with other social media platforms, removed Trump. This led to Trump launching his own social media platform, 'Truth Social'. Also read | Trump grants Musk veto power over federal hirings, orders agencies to comply with DOGE directives Musk buys Twitter Elon Musk, who in 2022 bought Twitter and renamed it X, reinstated Trump's account and emerged as a vocal supporter. During the recent presidential election, he openly backed Trump, who has since rewarded him with a role leading the newly created Department of Government Efficiency. Subsequently, in 2022, Elon Musk purchased Twitter, renaming it X. The SpaceX CEO then reinstated Trump to the platform and went on to become a major Trump supporter in the 2024 US Election race. X has yet to comment on the settlement publicly. Also read | Watch | Elon Musk's son captures the hearts of netizens as he accompanies father to Oval Office Meta paid even more settlement to Trump Trump's grievances with social media didn’t stop with Twitter. In January, Meta—the parent company of Facebook and Instagram—agreed to pay him $25 million to settle a similar lawsuit over censoring after the Capitol riot. News agency AFP reports that a company spokesperson has confirmed the settlement news. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk’s X to pay Donald Trump $10 million to settle Twitter ban lawsuit: Report

Elon Musk made his debut public appearance with Donald Trump at the White House to defend the swift and extensive cuts he's pushing across the federal government. Watch this report for more details!

Why Trump & Musk is slashing government jobs in US?

Elon Musk appears in the White House, backs big cost cut plans

Elon Musk defends big cost cutting plans

US President Donald Trump has been taking actions to cut staff at the federal bureaucracy and also dismantling several agencies. Trump on Tuesday (Feb 11) signed a new executive order to limit new hiring and commence a "critical transformation" of government.&nbsp;
Trump has some specific targets, including, foreign aid workers, inspectors general, Jan. 6 investigators, and diversity, equity, and inclusion workers.&nbsp;
Moreover, he has also given wide powers to his close Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has cracked down on more than a dozen agencies in search of spending and layoffs.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-fires-usaid-inspector-general-report-8714191">US President Donald Trump fires USAID inspector general: Report</a>
However, the US federal courts have temporarily halted some of the administration's efforts but many more layoffs across the government are expected in the weeks ahead.&nbsp;
<h2>List of agencies that have been under Trump's radar:</h2>
<h3>United States Agency for International Development (USAID)</h3>
Elon Musk on February 2 announced to shut down USAID, which is responsible for humanitarian efforts across the world. However, the agency's website was taken down before the announcement, which left many aid groups across the globe in the dark.&nbsp;
In the beginning, the Trump administration put nearly 60 senior staffers on leave. &ldquo;We spent the weekend feeding USAID into the wood chipper,&rdquo; Musk posted on X on Feb 3.
Later, the administration said it would reduce the aid agency's workforce from more than 10,000 to hundreds of staffers. However, a judge temporarily halted the effort for more than 2,000 employees.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/close-it-down-trump-says-nothing-can-be-done-now-as-he-orders-usaid-to-cut-staff-from-10000-to-300-8700543">'Close it down': Trump says 'nothing can be done now' as he orders USAID to cut staff from 10,000 to 300</a>
<h3>Consumer Financial Protection Bureau&nbsp;</h3>
Elon Musk posted on Feb 7 on X, saying that the employees of the financial industry watchdog, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, may be next. &ldquo;CFPB RIP,&rdquo; he posted on X.&nbsp;
The next day, the acting director of the bureau told the staff of more than 1,700 to effectively halt work.
Employees were asked "not to perform any work tasks" starting Feb 10, and the agency's DC offices are expected to be closed all week.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hopes-linda-mcmahon-puts-herself-out-of-job-by-shutting-down-education-department-8693248">Trump hopes Linda McMahon 'puts herself out of job' by shutting down education&nbsp;department</a>
<h3>Centres of Medicare and Medicaid Services</h3>
The CMS, a subagency of the Department of Health and Human Services, has also been collaborating with DOGE since February 5.&nbsp;
Musk took to X, tweeting a Wall Street Journal article reporting thing, and said, "Yeah, this is where the big money fraud is happening."
<h3>Department of Education</h3>
Musk's DOGE gained access to the Department of Education, which Trump has promised to dismantle despite such an action needing congressional approval, Democratic leaders said.&nbsp;
DOGE reduced the number of employees at the Department of Education, slashing 89 independent research contracts at the department's Institute of Education Sciences worth nearly $900 million.&nbsp;
<h3>Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)</h3>
The Department of Homeland Security on February 11 fired four FEMA officials. This comes a day after Musk posted on X, claiming that he found tens of millions of dollars had been spent by the agency to lodge migrants in New York hotels.&nbsp;
Among the terminated officials were FEMA's chief financial officer, two program analysts, and a grant specialist, according to DHS.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-fema-agency-trump-threatened-to-get-rid-of-during-his-visit-to-north-carolina-8653405">What is FEMA, agency Trump threatened to get rid of during his visit to North Carolina?</a>
<h3>Federal Aviation Administration</h3>
The Department of Transportation and Musk announced earlier this month that he had access to FAA technologies to make "rapid safety upgrades", Musk posted on X.&nbsp;
The next day, Democratic Sen. Maria Cantwell sent a letter to Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy, arguing that it was a &ldquo;conflict of interest for someone whose company is regulated by the federal government to be involved in anything that affects his personal financial interest, his company, or his competitors.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: Trump has some specific targets, including, foreign aid workers, inspectors general, Jan. 6 investigators, and diversity, equity, and inclusion workers.

US President Donald Trump has been taking actions to cut staff at the federal bureaucracy and also dismantling several agencies. Trump on Tuesday (Feb 11) signed a new executive order to limit new hiring and commence a "critical transformation" of government. Trump has some specific targets, including, foreign aid workers, inspectors general, Jan. 6 investigators, and diversity, equity, and inclusion workers. Moreover, he has also given wide powers to his close Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has cracked down on more than a dozen agencies in search of spending and layoffs. Also read: US President Donald Trump fires USAID inspector general: Report However, the US federal courts have temporarily halted some of the administration's efforts but many more layoffs across the government are expected in the weeks ahead. List of agencies that have been under Trump's radar: United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Elon Musk on February 2 announced to shut down USAID, which is responsible for humanitarian efforts across the world. However, the agency's website was taken down before the announcement, which left many aid groups across the globe in the dark. In the beginning, the Trump administration put nearly 60 senior staffers on leave. “We spent the weekend feeding USAID into the wood chipper,” Musk posted on X on Feb 3. Later, the administration said it would reduce the aid agency's workforce from more than 10,000 to hundreds of staffers. However, a judge temporarily halted the effort for more than 2,000 employees. Also read: 'Close it down': Trump says 'nothing can be done now' as he orders USAID to cut staff from 10,000 to 300 Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Elon Musk posted on Feb 7 on X, saying that the employees of the financial industry watchdog, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, may be next. “CFPB RIP,” he posted on X. The next day, the acting director of the bureau told the staff of more than 1,700 to effectively halt work. Employees were asked "not to perform any work tasks" starting Feb 10, and the agency's DC offices are expected to be closed all week. Also read: Trump hopes Linda McMahon 'puts herself out of job' by shutting down education department Centres of Medicare and Medicaid Services The CMS, a subagency of the Department of Health and Human Services, has also been collaborating with DOGE since February 5. Musk took to X, tweeting a Wall Street Journal article reporting thing, and said, "Yeah, this is where the big money fraud is happening." Department of Education Musk's DOGE gained access to the Department of Education, which Trump has promised to dismantle despite such an action needing congressional approval, Democratic leaders said. DOGE reduced the number of employees at the Department of Education, slashing 89 independent research contracts at the department's Institute of Education Sciences worth nearly $900 million. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) The Department of Homeland Security on February 11 fired four FEMA officials. This comes a day after Musk posted on X, claiming that he found tens of millions of dollars had been spent by the agency to lodge migrants in New York hotels. Among the terminated officials were FEMA's chief financial officer, two program analysts, and a grant specialist, according to DHS. Also read: What is FEMA, agency Trump threatened to get rid of during his visit to North Carolina? Federal Aviation Administration The Department of Transportation and Musk announced earlier this month that he had access to FAA technologies to make "rapid safety upgrades", Musk posted on X. The next day, Democratic Sen. Maria Cantwell sent a letter to Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy, arguing that it was a “conflict of interest for someone whose company is regulated by the federal government to be involved in anything that affects his personal financial interest, his company, or his competitors. (With inputs from agencies)

US agencies Trump, Musk and DOGE have been trying to dismantle and downsize. Here's the full list

A staff member from Elon Musk&rsquo;s DOGE team was mistakenly granted permissions to edit a highly sensitive Treasury payments system but did not use them, according to court documents released on Tuesday (Feb 11).
Joseph Gioeli III, Deputy Commissioner for Transformation and Modernisation at the Treasury Department&rsquo;s Bureau of the Fiscal Service, detailed the error in a nine-page affidavit.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-control-gaza-palestinians-will-be-living-beautifully-elsewhere-says-trump-as-he-meets-jordan-king-8712212">'US will control Gaza, Palestinians will be living beautifully elsewhere,' says Trump as he meets&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;king</a>
He said that Marko Elez, a 25-year-old DOGE staffer, was &ldquo;mistakenly&rdquo; given &ldquo;read/write&rdquo; access to a section of the Treasury payment system responsible for handling trillions of dollars annually. However, the mistake was &ldquo;promptly corrected,&rdquo; and a review confirmed that Elez had not made any changes to the database during the time he had access, according to Gioeli.
Previously, the Treasury Department had said that Elez had only been granted &ldquo;read-only&rdquo; access to the system.
Elez resigned from his Treasury role last week following the reports of his racist social media posts. Despite this, Musk has said that Elez will be reinstated. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance also supported Elez&rsquo;s return.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-essential-elon-musk-says-us-will-go-bankrupt-without-budget-cuts-8712825" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'It's essential': Elon Musk says US will go 'bankrupt' without budget cuts</a>
&ldquo;The initial investigation confirmed that all of Elez&rsquo;s interactions &hellip; occurred within the supervised, walk-through session and that no unauthorised actions had taken place. His access was promptly corrected to read-only, and he did not log into the system again,&rdquo; Gioeli&rsquo;s affidavit read.
The affidavits were filed in a federal court case brought by the New York attorney general and more than a dozen Democratic attorneys general, who are seeking to limit DOGE&rsquo;s access to the Treasury system.
On Tuesday, US District Judge Jeannette A. Vargas upheld an earlier ruling that bars unauthorised access to the payment system.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-fbi-pick-kash-patel-accused-of-sercretly-arranging-firings-before-confirmation-8712232">'Lied under oath': Trump&rsquo;s FBI pick Kash Patel accused of 'secretly' arranging firings before confirmation</a>
Officials from the Trump administration argue that their goal is to prevent fraudulent or wasteful payments and to enforce the president&rsquo;s executive order halting foreign aid spending.
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s just common sense, it&rsquo;s not draconian or radical,&rdquo; Musk said during an Oval Office appearance with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump" rel="dofollow">Trump</a> on Tuesday, defending his DOGE team&rsquo;s involvement with the Treasury payments system.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I think it&rsquo;s really just saying, let&rsquo;s look at each of these expenditures and say, is this actually in the best interest of the people? And if it is, it&rsquo;s approved, but if it&rsquo;s not, we should think about it,&rdquo; he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Elez resigned from his Treasury role last week following the reports of his racist social media posts. Despite this, Musk has said that Elez will be reinstated.

A staff member from Elon Musk’s DOGE team was mistakenly granted permissions to edit a highly sensitive Treasury payments system but did not use them, according to court documents released on Tuesday (Feb 11). Joseph Gioeli III, Deputy Commissioner for Transformation and Modernisation at the Treasury Department’s Bureau of the Fiscal Service, detailed the error in a nine-page affidavit. Also read: 'US will control Gaza, Palestinians will be living beautifully elsewhere,' says Trump as he meets Jordan king He said that Marko Elez, a 25-year-old DOGE staffer, was “mistakenly” given “read/write” access to a section of the Treasury payment system responsible for handling trillions of dollars annually. However, the mistake was “promptly corrected,” and a review confirmed that Elez had not made any changes to the database during the time he had access, according to Gioeli. Previously, the Treasury Department had said that Elez had only been granted “read-only” access to the system. Elez resigned from his Treasury role last week following the reports of his racist social media posts. Despite this, Musk has said that Elez will be reinstated. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance also supported Elez’s return. Also read: 'It's essential': Elon Musk says US will go 'bankrupt' without budget cuts “The initial investigation confirmed that all of Elez’s interactions … occurred within the supervised, walk-through session and that no unauthorised actions had taken place. His access was promptly corrected to read-only, and he did not log into the system again,” Gioeli’s affidavit read. The affidavits were filed in a federal court case brought by the New York attorney general and more than a dozen Democratic attorneys general, who are seeking to limit DOGE’s access to the Treasury system. On Tuesday, US District Judge Jeannette A. Vargas upheld an earlier ruling that bars unauthorised access to the payment system. Also read: 'Lied under oath': Trump’s FBI pick Kash Patel accused of 'secretly' arranging firings before confirmation Officials from the Trump administration argue that their goal is to prevent fraudulent or wasteful payments and to enforce the president’s executive order halting foreign aid spending. “It’s just common sense, it’s not draconian or radical,” Musk said during an Oval Office appearance with Trump on Tuesday, defending his DOGE team’s involvement with the Treasury payments system. “I think it’s really just saying, let’s look at each of these expenditures and say, is this actually in the best interest of the people? And if it is, it’s approved, but if it’s not, we should think about it,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Promptly corrected’: Elon Musk’s DOGE staffer was ‘mistakenly’ given ‘edit’ access to sensitive Treasury data

Elon Musk carried his son X &AElig; A-Xii to the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, on February 11, 2025.
As SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, on Tuesday (Feb 11), joined US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office for the first time, his son, X &AElig; A-Xii accompanied him.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-essential-elon-musk-says-us-will-go-bankrupt-without-budget-cuts-8712825">'It's essential': Elon Musk says US will go 'bankrupt' without budget cuts</a>
<h2>Musk&rsquo;s son steals the show</h2>
The four-year-old kept himself occupied as he played around in the Oval Office and smiled at the cameras as Trump signed an executive order directing federal agencies to comply with the Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://t.co/lrtgplEZ3X">pic.twitter.com/lrtgplEZ3X</a>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1889570375555596315?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The toddler also sat on his father&rsquo;s shoulders as Musk answered the questions posed by the reporters. X also seemed to copy Musk&rsquo;s hand gestures as he described the president as a &lsquo;high IQ individual&rsquo;.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-grants-musk-veto-power-over-federal-hirings-orders-agencies-to-comply-with-doge-directives-in-sweeping-executive-order-8712476">Trump grants Musk veto power over federal hirings, orders agencies to comply with DOGE directives</a>
<h2>Social media reacts to videos</h2>
A video of the press briefing in the Oval Office at the White House was shared by Musk on his social media X, where users flooded the comments as they found his son adorable.
&ldquo;I really love this whole scene,&rdquo; an X user wrote. Many others praised Musk&rsquo;s son, writing comments such as, &ldquo;I just love your son!! &nbsp;He&rsquo;s such a sweet boy,&rdquo; and &ldquo;Lil X is too cute and very intelligent.&rdquo; One joked, &ldquo;Sorry, listening but watching little X.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-defends-growing-influence-in-trump-20-administration-describes-doge-as-unelected-fourth-branch-of-govt-donald-trump-8712396">Elon Musk defends growing influence in Trump 2.0 administration, describes DOGE as 'unelected' fourth branch of govt</a>
A person recalled former president John F. Kennedy&rsquo;s son, saying, &ldquo;Your son is the cutest thing on 2 feet. &nbsp;Watching him yesterday was reminiscent of John John (Kennedy) playing around his father's (JFK) desk.&rdquo;
Some users also hoped X to follow his father&rsquo;s and Trump&rsquo;s path, saying, &ldquo;Hahaha Elon&rsquo;s kid is gonna be running companies before he is old enough to be able to handle a paperclip.&rdquo; Another said, &ldquo;An invaluable experience for the kid, definitely a candidate for future president.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-changes-x-display-name-again-brings-back-harry-bolz-8712126">Elon Musk changes X display name again, brings back &lsquo;Harry Bolz&rsquo;</a>
Born in May 2020 to Musk and Canadian musician Grimes (Claire Boucher), X &AElig; A-Xii earlier became viral for his unusual name.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending | As SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, on Tuesday (Feb 11) joined US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office for the first time, his son, X Æ A-Xii accompanied him.

Elon Musk carried his son X Æ A-Xii to the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, on February 11, 2025. As SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, on Tuesday (Feb 11), joined US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office for the first time, his son, X Æ A-Xii accompanied him. Also read | 'It's essential': Elon Musk says US will go 'bankrupt' without budget cuts Musk’s son steals the show The four-year-old kept himself occupied as he played around in the Oval Office and smiled at the cameras as Trump signed an executive order directing federal agencies to comply with the Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). pic.twitter.com/lrtgplEZ3X — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 12, 2025 The toddler also sat on his father’s shoulders as Musk answered the questions posed by the reporters. X also seemed to copy Musk’s hand gestures as he described the president as a ‘high IQ individual’. Also read | Trump grants Musk veto power over federal hirings, orders agencies to comply with DOGE directives Social media reacts to videos A video of the press briefing in the Oval Office at the White House was shared by Musk on his social media X, where users flooded the comments as they found his son adorable. “I really love this whole scene,” an X user wrote. Many others praised Musk’s son, writing comments such as, “I just love your son!! He’s such a sweet boy,” and “Lil X is too cute and very intelligent.” One joked, “Sorry, listening but watching little X.” Also read | Elon Musk defends growing influence in Trump 2.0 administration, describes DOGE as 'unelected' fourth branch of govt A person recalled former president John F. Kennedy’s son, saying, “Your son is the cutest thing on 2 feet. Watching him yesterday was reminiscent of John John (Kennedy) playing around his father's (JFK) desk.” Some users also hoped X to follow his father’s and Trump’s path, saying, “Hahaha Elon’s kid is gonna be running companies before he is old enough to be able to handle a paperclip.” Another said, “An invaluable experience for the kid, definitely a candidate for future president.” Also read | Elon Musk changes X display name again, brings back ‘Harry Bolz’ Born in May 2020 to Musk and Canadian musician Grimes (Claire Boucher), X Æ A-Xii earlier became viral for his unusual name. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | Elon Musk's son captures the hearts of netizens as he accompanies father to Oval Office

Sam Altman publicly rejected Elon Musk’s alleged bid for OpenAI, stating that the organization is "not for sale." Altman also commented on Musk’s demeanor, saying he doesn’t think Musk is a happy person. Tensions between the two tech leaders are growing as AI competition heats up.

Musk vs Altman: Altman says 'no thank you' to Musk's bid for OpenAI

Elon Musk made his debut public appearance with Donald Trump at the White House to announce new powers to oversee the US government. Standing behind the Resolute desk in the Oval Office, Musk defended his involvement in the reduction of federal agencies and warned that the United States would go bankrupt without these cuts. Watch in for more details!

Musk defends cost-cutting efforts in Oval Office appearance

Elon Musk warned on Tuesday (Feb 11) that the United States (US) will go "bankrupt" without drastic budget cuts. The billionaire is leading the charge to cut federal spending under the Donald Trump administration. Speaking with the US president at the White House in the Oval Office, the chief of DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency) said the reduction of government expenses is not an option but rather a necessity.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-grants-musk-veto-power-over-federal-hirings-orders-agencies-to-comply-with-doge-directives-in-sweeping-executive-order-8712476">Trump grants Musk veto power over federal hirings, orders agencies to comply with DOGE directives</a>
"It's not optional. It's essential," Trump said.&nbsp;
Musk has been assigned to oversee the cost-cutting efforts via his newly formed department under Trump's second term in the White House. Musk slammed the federal bureaucracy and called it an "unelected, unconstitutional branch of government". He accused that the branch holds more power than elected representatives in the US administration.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-changes-x-display-name-again-brings-back-harry-bolz-8712126">Elon Musk changes X display name again, brings back &lsquo;Harry Bolz&rsquo;</a>
This came as Trump signed an executive order in the Oval Office making it mandatory for federal agencies to follow DOGE's directives. The move is intended to reduce the size of the federal workforce, something Musk has long advocated for.&nbsp;
Under the new order by Trump, the federal agencies will now be permitted to hire only one employee for every four that leave the branch. And to hire that single employee as well, the top executives of the agency will have to consult DOGE first.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-offers-to-buy-openai-for-nearly-100bn-sam-altman-says-would-rather-buy-twitter-for-8709155">Elon Musk offers to buy OpenAI for nearly $100bn, Sam Altman says would rather buy 'Twitter' for...</a>
Musk highlighted the budget deficit of America, which reached $1.8 trillion in 2024. He warned against the rising interest payments on national debt.&nbsp;
Although the Tesla CEO, who also owns SpaceX and X (formerly Twitter), denied any sort of concerns over potential conflicts of interest within the administration, critics said that since Musk's companies have secured billions in government contracts, his involvement in cost-cutting decisions within the US administration is something to be worried about.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-doge-claims-fema-sent-59m-to-luxury-hotels-to-house-illegal-migrants-8708359">&lsquo;Gross insubordination&rsquo;: Musk claims FEMA sent $59mn to luxury hotels to &lsquo;house illegal migrants&rsquo;</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | TRENDING | Elon Musk warned on Tuesday (Feb 11) that the United States (US) will go "bankrupt" without the drastic budget cuts. The billionaire is leading the charge to cut federal spending under the Donald Trump administration. 

Elon Musk warned on Tuesday (Feb 11) that the United States (US) will go "bankrupt" without drastic budget cuts. The billionaire is leading the charge to cut federal spending under the Donald Trump administration. Speaking with the US president at the White House in the Oval Office, the chief of DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency) said the reduction of government expenses is not an option but rather a necessity. Also read: Trump grants Musk veto power over federal hirings, orders agencies to comply with DOGE directives "It's not optional. It's essential," Trump said. Musk has been assigned to oversee the cost-cutting efforts via his newly formed department under Trump's second term in the White House. Musk slammed the federal bureaucracy and called it an "unelected, unconstitutional branch of government". He accused that the branch holds more power than elected representatives in the US administration. Also read: Elon Musk changes X display name again, brings back ‘Harry Bolz’ This came as Trump signed an executive order in the Oval Office making it mandatory for federal agencies to follow DOGE's directives. The move is intended to reduce the size of the federal workforce, something Musk has long advocated for. Under the new order by Trump, the federal agencies will now be permitted to hire only one employee for every four that leave the branch. And to hire that single employee as well, the top executives of the agency will have to consult DOGE first. Also read: Elon Musk offers to buy OpenAI for nearly $100bn, Sam Altman says would rather buy 'Twitter' for... Musk highlighted the budget deficit of America, which reached $1.8 trillion in 2024. He warned against the rising interest payments on national debt. Although the Tesla CEO, who also owns SpaceX and X (formerly Twitter), denied any sort of concerns over potential conflicts of interest within the administration, critics said that since Musk's companies have secured billions in government contracts, his involvement in cost-cutting decisions within the US administration is something to be worried about. Also read: ‘Gross insubordination’: Musk claims FEMA sent $59mn to luxury hotels to ‘house illegal migrants’ (With inputs from agencies)

'It's essential': Elon Musk says US will go 'bankrupt' without budget cuts

Elon Musk made his debut public appearance with Donald Trump at the White House to announce new powers to oversee the US government. Standing behind the Resolute desk in the Oval Office, Musk defended his involvement in the reduction of federal agencies and warned that the United States would go bankrupt without these cuts.

Elon Musk says, 'It is essential to reduce federal spending'

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