They're coming right away First cracks in the relationship between Elon Musk and Donald Trump. No sooner had the news been announced than the tech guru had already launched a direct attack on the Stargate Project, the ambitious initiative presented by the new American president for Strengthen infrastructure dedicated to artificial intelligence in the United States. The plan calls for an initial investment of 100 billion dollars, with the goal of reaching 500 billion in four years. But for Musk the entire project lacks financial solidity. “They don’t have the money,” the Tesla and SpaceX CEO wrote on X, adding: “SoftBank, one of the major partners, has guaranteed less than $10 billion. I have this for sure from reliable sources.”
Musk didn't just question the financial availability. He also insinuated that the companies involved (SoftBank, OpenAI and Oracle) could find themselves forced to resort to bonds or external investors to bridge the economic gap. A strong criticism that takes on particular importance given the link between Musk and the Trump administration, of which he is a key advisor and head of the Department for Government Efficiency (Doge).
What is the Stargate Project?
The Stargate project aims to ensure American leadership in the field of artificial intelligence through the construction of a advanced network of data centers and technology campusesThe initiative is led by a joint venture composed of SoftBank, OpenAI and Oracle, with the involvement of MGX fund of the United Arab Emirates. During the White House announcement, President Trump called Stargate a “game changer” for the country, promising to spur private investment by easing regulations and speeding up approval processes.
Masayoshi Son, CEO of SoftBank, said that the project will start with a Initial capital of 100 billion dollars, with the aim of attracting further investments for reach 500 billion. But Musk's words immediately cast a shadow over the real feasibility of the plan.
Trump-Musk, first cracks in the relationship?
Musk's stance against Stargate raises questions not only on the financial soundness of the project, but also on its relationship with Donald Trump. Despite being considered an ally of the president, Musk did not hesitate to to publicly express his dissent, calling into question the entire operation. His position as head of the Doge has already raised questions about potential conflicts of interest, given his influence in the technology sector and the xAI competition, his start-up dedicated to artificial intelligence, and OpenAI.
Sam Altman (OpenAi) replies: “Think of the United States”
Musk's criticisms have found a ready response response from Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, who defended the Stargate project and its potential for the country. “I sincerely respect your successes“I think you are the most inspiring entrepreneur of our time,” Altman began in a post on X. Then, in a more pointed tone, he added: “Wrong, as I’m sure you know. You want to come visit the first site already under construction? I realize that what is great for the country is not always great for your companies, but In your new role I hope you will give priority to the United States".
Altman's words are not only a defense of the project, but also a subtle criticism of Musk's position, implicitly accused of putting his corporate interests before national ones. The tension between the two, former partners in the foundation of OpenAI, has thus further intensified.
Musk vs Altman: A Technological Rivalry
The conflict between Musk and Altman has its roots in the founding of OpenAI, born as a non-profit laboratory for research on artificial intelligence. Musk has walked away from the project accusing Altman of betraying the original mission, turning OpenAI in a profit-driven companyThe divergences have become more acute with the ChatGPT success in 2022 and the subsequent rise of OpenAI as an industry leader.
Altman, for his part, described Musk as “a bully who likes to argue,” underlining the philosophical and strategic differences between the two. While Musk is known for his alarmist positions On the risks of artificial intelligence, Altman was more optimistic, promoting a accelerated but regulated development approach.
The Future of the Stargate Project
Despite the criticism, the Work on the Stargate project seems to have already begun, according to SoftBank and OpenAI executives. It remains to be seen whether the initiative will achieve its goals and whether Musk’s relationship with the Trump administration will withstand growing tensions.
