A political firestorm erupted after Elon Musk labeled Senator Mark Kelly a “traitor” for his recent visit to Ukraine, sparking a fiery response from the former Navy pilot, astronaut, and decorated veteran.
During an appearance on MSNBC, Kelly did not hold back, delivering a scathing rebuke of Musk’s business-driven interests and lack of commitment to public service.
Kelly’s Powerful Response
“When I was twenty-two years old, I swore an oath to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States,” Kelly said. “I have lived that oath my entire life—flying in combat, serving in the U.S. Navy for twenty-five years, and risking my life in space.“
Turning his attention to Musk, Kelly delivered a brutal takedown, questioning the billionaire’s allegiances.
“The only oath I can think of that maybe Elon Musk has sworn is an oath to his own checking account, to his pocketbook.”
Kelly went further, blasting Musk’s mass layoffs at SpaceX and Twitter, including the firings of military veterans who worked for him.
“I had veterans in my office last week who found out that Elon Musk fired them for ‘poor performance’—after years of dedicated service. He has ruined their lives.”
Why Did Musk Attack Kelly?
The feud ignited after Kelly posted an image from Ukraine, emphasizing the need for continued American support in the war against Russia’s invasion.
“Just left Ukraine. What I saw proved to me we can’t give up on the Ukrainian people,” Kelly wrote.
Kelly accused Donald Trump of trying to undermine Ukraine’s position, warning that if Russia makes gains, it could embolden Putin to threaten NATO allies, putting American troops at risk.
Musk, a Trump ally and vocal critic of U.S. aid to Ukraine, quickly responded:
“You are a traitor.”
Kelly’s clapback was swift and cutting:
“Elon, if you don’t understand that defending freedom is a basic tenet of what makes America great and keeps us safe, maybe you should leave it to those of us who do.”
Musk’s Controversial Ties to Trump and Putin
Musk has increasingly aligned himself with Trump and right-wing policies, advocating for cuts to government programs while benefiting from federal contracts and subsidies for his businesses.
Kelly accused Musk of supporting Republican tax cuts for billionaires at the expense of ordinary Americans, slashing jobs while pushing policies that would cut healthcare for children and seniors.
“I would prefer if Elon went back to his old job at SpaceX and Tesla instead of playing political games,” Kelly said.
What’s Next?
The public feud between Musk and Kelly highlights the growing divide over U.S. foreign policy, wealth inequality, and corporate power in government affairs.
While Musk continues his politically charged commentary, Kelly remains firm in his stance that standing with Ukraine is not just an international obligation but a defense of democracy itself.
One thing is certain—this war of words is far from over.
