Russian President Vladimir Putin has lauded Elon Musk as a “talented businessman” during a discussion about Russia’s space program. Speaking at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Putin expressed admiration for Musk’s capabilities and recognized his prominence globally. He acknowledged that Musk operates with the support of the United States government and expressed Russia’s willingness to foster similar support for private businesses in the country.

Putin emphasized that Russia has already extended such support to its space programs under the agency Roscosmos. The president’s praise for Musk comes in the wake of a failed Russian moon landing mission. Last month, the Luna-25 lander crashed upon reaching the lunar surface, marking a significant setback for Russia’s space program. This setback coincided with India’s successful landing of its first spacecraft on the moon, further highlighting Russia’s disappointment.

Interestingly, Musk also made headlines recently when he declined an emergency request from the Ukrainian government to expand satellite coverage in Crimea. Sevastopol in Crimea, currently annexed by Russia since 2014, was the target of this request. Musk, in a post on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), explained that fulfilling the request would implicate SpaceX in a potential act of war and escalation of conflict.

Overall, Putin’s appreciation for Musk’s business acumen showcases the recognition of his innovative and enterprising endeavors. The Russian president’s optimism regarding private businesses in Russia aligns with his goal of industrial and technological development in the country.