Putin Compares Musk to Soviet Space Pioneer Korolev

Russian President Vladimir Putin has publicly praised Elon Musk, comparing him to Sergei Korolev, the Soviet engineer who pioneered the USSR's early space achievements. Putin highlighted Musk's passion for Mars and suggested that individuals like Musk, driven by singular visionary ideas, are rare and often realize what once seemed impossible. This recognition comes as Musk's influence over the American space industry continues to grow, especially through his leadership at SpaceX and his advisory role to President Trump. Industry insiders express both excitement and anxiety about Musk's outsized sway, noting that his informal yet powerful position allows him to shape U.S. space policy and business decisions. Musk's controversial statements and policy suggestions, such as de-orbiting the International Space Station early, further underscore the complexities of his leadership and its impact on both national and international space agendas.