Musk and Zelensky Are at Odds Over a Twitter Poll

Ukrainian President Zelensky has responded to Musk’s Twitter poll. In the said poll, Tesla’s boss suggested terminating Russia’s invasion. It’s worth mentioning that Tesla was the most valuable automotive brand worldwide in 2021.

Musk polled his 107.7 million followers on ideas about Ukraine ceding territory to Russia. After only ten hours, his poll had received over two million votes. But many Ukrainians criticized Elon Musk for that.

Ukrainian ambassador to Germany, Andrij Melnyk, used a strong expletive in his diplomatic response. 

Garry Kasparov, the Russian chess master, stated that the poll was a betrayal of the Ukrainian sacrifice and courage and a repetition of Kremlin propaganda. Musk also suggested holding elections in Ukrainian parts occupied by Russia. 

Tesla’s boss, who also happens to be the world’s richest man, thinks Russia should leave according to the people’s will. In addition, the multimillionaire suggested that the world recognize Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014, as part of the country. 

He also warned that the conflict could end in nuclear war, but he added that it is unlikely to happen.

As a response, the Ukrainian President tweeted his own poll, asking users whether they like Musk more as a supporter of Ukraine or of Russia. That poll had received over 1.5 million votes eight hours after he posted it.

On a side note, after the referendums, which were denounced as forged by Kyiv and its Western allies, President Putin has taken four Ukrainian regions as part of Russia. However, Russia isn’t completely controlling the four regions.

Elon Musk’s satellite internet company had previously sent equipment to Ukraine during Russia’s invasion. As a result, Musk gained popularity in Ukraine, and Zelensky invited him to visit once the war was over.