Putin calls Musk a 'genius' as Russia builds its own Starlink rival, Rassvet

Russian President Vladimir Putin called Elon Musk a "genius" and said they are in "close contact" as Russia develops its own Starlink alternative, Rassvet, a low Earth orbit satellite constellation built by private firm Bureau 1440. Speaking at the Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow, Putin noted Musk has over 5,000 satellites in orbit while Russia is "taking the first steps," emphasizing the need for orbital rules and mutual understanding with U.S. partners despite political issues. SpaceX did not respond to CNBC's request for comment. Starlink operates more than 11,000 satellites serving 174 countries. Earlier this month, Ukraine accused SpaceX and Musk of restricting Starshield, its government satellite service, slowing military connectivity and harming air defenses during Russian attacks, though Musk said Ukraine breached terms of service by using civilian networks for offensive drone strikes.