Trump, enraged by Musk's undisclosed China briefing, abruptly halted it

President Donald Trump was reportedly upset about an alleged Pentagon meeting last month between Elon Musk and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.

Musk, a prominent billionaire and close Trump ally, was scheduled to discuss China-related issues with Hegseth on March 21. According to The New York Times, Musk was to receive sensitive briefings detailing U.S. military strategies in potential conflicts involving China. Trump swiftly labeled this report as "fake news."

While Musk did indeed meet Hegseth, Trump clarified the topic was solely about the Department of Government Efficiency. An Axios source confirmed the original intention was China-focused, but Trump intervened. A government official quoted Trump, asking, “What the f--- is Elon doing there? Make sure he doesn't go.” Despite this, relations between Trump and Musk reportedly remain positive.

"POTUS still very much loves Elon, but there are some red lines," the official explained. "Elon has a lot of business in China and he has good relations there, and this briefing just wasn't the right thing."

The Times article described the intended briefing as containing 20 to 30 slides about U.S. strategies in a potential China conflict, representing a substantial expansion of Musk’s current advisory role aimed at reducing government spending.

Trump himself highlighted the potential conflict of interest due to Musk’s extensive business connections in China. Additionally, ABC News mentioned SpaceX’s longstanding contracts with the Defense Department.

Following publication, Trump stated on Truth Social: “They said, incorrectly, that Elon Musk is going to the Pentagon tomorrow to be briefed on any potential 'war with China.' How ridiculous? China will not even be mentioned or discussed. How disgraceful it is that the discredited media can make up such lies. Anyway, the story is completely untrue!!!”

Musk responded, saying, “I look forward to the prosecutions of those at the Pentagon who are leaking maliciously false information to NYT. They will be found.”