GROZNY, Russia — Ramzan Kadyrov, the leader of Chechnya, a republic within the Russian Federation, invited Tesla CEO Elon Musk to Russia on Saturday after sharing a video of himself driving a Tesla Cybertruck mounted with a machine gun.
The video, posted on Kadyrov’s official Telegram channel, shows the Chechen leader behind the wheel of the stainless steel-clad vehicle, taking it for a drive before standing next to a machine gun mounted in the truck bed. The weapon was draped with belts of ammunition.
In an accompanying message, Kadyrov praised the Cybertruck, calling it “undoubtedly one of the best cars in the world,” adding, “I literally fell in love.”
Kadyrov also stated his intention to donate the vehicle to Russian forces involved in the ongoing invasion of Ukraine. “It’s not for nothing that they call this a cyberbeast,” he said. “I’m sure that this beast will bring plenty of benefits to our troops.”
The Chechen leader claimed he received the truck from Musk, though this assertion has not been independently verified. Requests for comment sent to Tesla were not immediately answered.
Extending an invitation to Musk, Kadyrov said, “I don’t think the Russian Foreign Ministry would mind such a trip.” He added, “And, of course, we’re waiting for your new developments that will help us finish our special military operation (in Ukraine).”
Kadyrov, who has been sanctioned by the United States government due to alleged human rights violations, has been a vocal supporter of Russia’s actions in Ukraine, often referring to the invasion as a “special military operation,” echoing official Kremlin terminology.
The video and invitation come amid ongoing international tensions surrounding Russia’s military actions in Ukraine and raise questions about the potential use of civilian vehicles in conflict zones.
Musk, known for his controversial statements and actions on social media, has not publicly responded to Kadyrov’s invitation as of this report.
The incident highlights the complex intersections of technology, politics, and international relations, as well as the role of social media in modern diplomacy and conflict narratives.
Source: apnews.com
