MUSKTU 
Buma Alleges Kremlin-Backed Effort Exploited Musk’s Personal Vulnerabilities
A former FBI counterintelligence agent has claimed that Russian intelligence attempted to blackmail billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk by exploiting his personal habits and lifestyle. In a recent interview aired by German broadcaster ZDF, agent Jonathan Buma alleged that Russian President Vladimir Putin approved the operation, which reportedly focused on Musk’s interest in sex and recreational drugs, including ketamine.
According to Buma, Russian operatives collected compromising material with the aim of influencing Musk, who has maintained a high-profile role in both business and geopolitics. He further claimed that Musk and PayPal co-founder Peter Thiel came under increased scrutiny after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
“Russian intelligence saw Musk’s susceptibility to promiscuous women and drug use as an opportunity,” Buma said. He added that Musk’s frequent presence at events like Burning Man, his affinity for gambling, and connections to adult entertainment increased his vulnerability.
Alleged Kremlin Approval
Buma asserted that such an operation could not have gone forward without Putin’s direct knowledge and consent. “The agents would not have gotten involved in the blackmail plot had the Russian president not approved it,” he stated, though he did not disclose the source of this information.
The Wall Street Journal previously reported on direct communication between Musk and Putin, raising concerns among U.S. officials regarding possible foreign influence over the influential CEO.
Broader Implications
These revelations arrive at a time when Musk’s involvement in international affairs has sparked controversy. After initially offering his Starlink internet service to Ukrainian forces, Musk later threatened to restrict access, drawing criticism from U.S. and Ukrainian leaders. He has also shared public criticism of Ukraine’s leadership, aligning with former President Donald Trump, whom he recently accompanied on a tour of the Middle East.
The case adds a new layer of complexity to ongoing debates about the influence of tech magnates on global security and politics. Musk has not responded publicly to Buma’s claims.