Shocking Corruption: Trump Officials Push Tariffed Nations for Musk’s Starlink Approval

Reports have surfaced that officials from the Trump administration have been urging countries impacted by U.S. tariffs to endorse the satellite internet services provided by Elon Musk’s Starlink as a way to facilitate trade discussions, highlighting the potential conflicts of interest due to Musk’s close ties with the government.

The Washington Post disclosed on Wednesday that it had accessed “a collection of internal government communications” which “show how U.S. embassies and the State Department have been advocating for American satellite companies, frequently referring to Starlink by name.”

“While the records don’t directly prove that the Trump administration explicitly offered tariff reductions in exchange for Starlink favors, they do suggest that Secretary of State Marco Rubio has been increasingly urging officials to secure regulatory approvals for Musk’s satellite company amidst broader trade discussions initiated by the White House,” the report continued.

The Post specifically mentioned ongoing trade talks between the U.S. and India, noting that “officials have expedited the approval process for Starlink, believing that it might strengthen their trade agreements with the administration.”

The Times of India reported on Wednesday that Starlink, a division of Musk’s SpaceX, “has received a Letter of Intent from the Indian government to provide satellite communication services.”

Lisa Gilbert, co-president of the U.S.-based advocacy group Public Citizen, responded to the Post‘s findings by saying, “the blatant conflict of interest in pushing a Musk-owned business is revolting.”

“The main point is that trade and governmental tools should serve the American people, not be exploited for the financial gain of tech moguls,” Gilbert further commented.

Rep. Greg Casar (D-Texas), leader of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, described the revelations as “a massive new scandal.”

“Trump and Musk are manipulating tariffs to coerce other nations into purchasing from Musk’s companies. Working families are shelling out an additional $4,000 annually so Musk can secure new contracts,” Casar stated on social media. “They get wealthier while everyone else suffers.”

Last month, U.S. President Donald Trump temporarily halted the harsher tariffs he planned to impose globally but maintained a universal 10% import duty, already increasing costs for American consumers.

The Post also reported on Wednesday that “at least two nations have explicitly considered or proceeded with adopting Musk’s Starlink to sidestep Trump’s tariffs and secure a more favorable trade deal with the United States.”

Cambodia, facing a potential 49% tariff rate, is reportedly one of these countries. A U.S. embassy cable revealed that Cambodian officials have expressed a “willingness to improve our trade relationship by promoting the market entry of prominent U.S. firms like Boeing and Starlink.”

“Another cable dated April 17 mentioned that Starlink was seeking a license to operate in Djibouti,” the newspaper added. “Embassy staff noted they would assist Starlink as much as possible: ‘Post will continue to coordinate with Starlink in identifying government officials and facilitating discussions.'”

U.S. Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) remarked that the internal communications demonstrate “severe corruption.” Congressional Democrats are currently investigating the White House’s dealings with Starlink services.

“No surprise here: another maneuver by Trump that directly benefits Elon Musk—the person who spent $260 million to help elect Donald Trump and has since gained significant influence in the federal government,” Van Hollen said. “They are setting up the government to work in their favor.”