Ramzan Kadyrov, the leader of Russia's Chechen Republic, has sparked controversy by sharing a video of himself driving a Tesla Cybertruck equipped with a mounted machine gun. The incident has drawn attention to the vehicle's potential military applications and raised questions about its acquisition.
Kadyrov posted a video on Telegram showing himself driving a Cybertruck through Grozny, Chechnya's capital. The vehicle was fitted with what appeared to be a mounted machine gun. Kadyrov praised Elon Musk, calling him "undoubtedly the most brilliant innovator of our era."
The Chechen leader claimed he received the truck directly from Musk, which Musk later denied. Kadyrov announced plans to contribute the vehicle to Russian forces fighting in Ukraine.
Musk responded on X (formerly Twitter), denying any donation of a Cybertruck to a "Russian general." The Cybertruck is currently only sold in North America, raising questions about how it was obtained.
Kadyrov, who faces U.S. sanctions for alleged human rights violations, invited Musk to visit Grozny. The incident highlights potential concerns about the use of civilian vehicles for military purposes.
Tesla has not officially commented on the situation.
This incident underscores the complex intersections of technology, politics, and military applications in today's global landscape. While the Cybertruck's appearance in Chechnya raises questions about its acquisition and intended use, it also demonstrates the vehicle's potential appeal beyond its intended civilian market.Excerpt: Chechen leader Kadyrov praised the Tesla Cybertruck in a video showing the vehicle with a mounted gun. Musk denied donating the truck, which Kadyrov claims will be sent to Russian forces in Ukraine. The incident highlights concerns about civilian vehicles' potential military use.
