Russia open to granting Elon Musk political asylum amid clash with Trump

Russia has previously granted asylum to Edward Snowden and pro-Kremlin blogger Graham Phillips

June 7, 2025

Dmitry Novikov comments on the political rift between Musk and Trump

As tensions intensify between Elon Musk and US President Donald Trump, a senior Russian lawmaker has floated the idea that Russia could offer political asylum to the tech billionaire. Dmitry Novikov, First Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee on International Affairs and a member of the Communist Party, made the remarks in response to recent public clashes between Musk and Trump, as reported by the Russian news agency TASS.

“I think that Musk has a completely different game, that he will not need any political asylum, although, if he did, Russia, of course, could provide it,” Novikov stated when asked if Russia would consider offering Musk asylum, similar to the protection previously granted to Edward Snowden.

Novikov downplayed the likelihood of Musk seeking such protection, saying that while Musk has engaged in what he termed “political communication,” he believes the disagreements between Musk and the US government are more tactical than fundamental.

“At this stage, the return of the Democratic team to the White House in three years is not what I think Musk needs and not what he is ready to applaud,” Novikov said. “Therefore, there are tactical differences and strategic things, and he will adhere to them, it seems to me.”

Steve Bannon calls Musk an “Illegal Alien,” urges seizure of SpaceX

The Russian lawmaker’s comments followed inflammatory remarks made by Steve Bannon, former White House strategist and an outspoken critic of Musk. Bannon claimed that Musk is “an illegal alien” and called for his immediate deportation from the United States.

“They should initiate a formal investigation of his immigration status because I am of the strong belief that he is an illegal alien,” Bannon said. He further urged the US government to seize control of SpaceX under the Defense Production Act, arguing that Musk’s threats to shut down the Dragon spacecraft, which supports missions to the International Space Station, pose a national security concern.

Kremlin declines to comment on US dispute

Responding to questions about the Musk-Trump conflict, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov refrained from taking a position.

“This is a domestic issue of the United States, and we don’t intend to interfere,” Peskov said. “We’re confident the US president will handle this situation alone.”

Historical context: Russia’s asylum offers

Russia has previously provided asylum to high-profile individuals, including former NSA contractor Edward Snowden, who leaked classified US surveillance programs in 2013, and British blogger Graham Phillips, who is known for his pro-Kremlin views.

The discussion surrounding Elon Musk comes at a time of heightened political polarization in the US, with Musk becoming increasingly critical of both political parties and US policy directions.

For all the latest updates, download PGurus App.