Russia’s President Vladimir Putin commended tech billionaire Elon Musk during an economic forum in Russia’s Far East. Although he did not directly address the recent Starlink controversy, Putin praised Musk for his achievements in the space industry, stating that he is an exceptional individual who is recognized worldwide.

Putin acknowledged Musk’s success as an active and talented businessman, attributing some of it to the support he receives from the American state. This public praise follows former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev’s positive remarks on Musk’s actions regarding Starlink, Crimea, and Ukraine’s forces.

Musk’s recent controversy stemmed from his refusal to activate the Starlink satellite communication network in Sevastopol, Crimea, following a Ukrainian request. Musk expressed concerns about being complicit in a potential act of war and feared the consequences of provoking the Kremlin. Starlink, which provides satellite services to over fifty countries, has played a crucial role in battlefield communications in Ukraine.

In an interview with author Walter Isaacson for a new biography on Musk, the entrepreneur stated that Starlink’s purpose was to facilitate peaceful activities such as online education and entertainment, rather than being involved in conflicts or military operations. Musk expressed his worries about the Ukrainian attack escalating into a nuclear war.

Following Musk’s revelation, a top aide to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized him, claiming that by withholding the activation of Starlink, Musk allowed the Russian military fleet to attack Ukrainian cities, resulting in civilian casualties.

Despite the controversy surrounding Musk’s decision, Putin’s praise for the entrepreneur’s accomplishments remains unchanged, emphasizing his recognition as a prominent figure worldwide.