A Cybertruck on the Battlefield
The tale began in August 2024, when Kadyrov shared a video on Telegram showing him driving a Cybertruck, a story we covered here. He claimed that this highly publicized vehicle was personally given to him by Elon Musk. The shown model was modified, equipped with a rooftop machine gun, and intended for use on the Ukrainian front. Kadyrov praised the vehicle’s performance, highlighting its maneuverability and crew protection. Shortly after, Elon Musk responded on X, labeling these claims as “false” and adding that he had never sent such a vehicle to the Chechen leader.
Claims and Denials
The situation became even more bizarre when Kadyrov asserted that Musk had “remotely disabled” the Cybertruck, making the vehicle inoperative in the midst of a military operation. According to the Chechen leader, this forced his team to tow the vehicle off the battlefield. “That’s not very manly,” Kadyrov stated, criticizing Musk for acting “inappropriately” after supposedly giving such an expensive gift. Musk, on his part, stood firm in denying Kadyrov’s allegations.
The Issue of Military Use of Civilian Technology
This incident raises multiple questions about the use of electric vehicles in war environments. Given their reliance on electricity and the lack of charging stations at front lines, the practicality of these vehicles in a military context appears quite limited. Experts have also pointed out that it’s legally impossible to export a Cybertruck to Chechnya due to US sanctions, suggesting that the vehicle must have been acquired through unofficial channels.
Geopolitical and Commercial Implications
Beyond the accusations and denials, this incident highlights the geopolitical and commercial challenges faced by tech companies. The misuse of civilian products in military contexts could damage the reputation of the involved companies, while also raising ethical concerns. For Musk, who has already indirectly participated in the Ukraine conflict via his Starlink satellites, this yet unverifiable story could impact how Tesla’s neutrality in international conflicts is perceived.