Russian President Vladimir Putin praises Elon Musk as a “real genius” and says Russia is in close coordination with him as it develops a satellite communications system. The comments are made as Putin engages with African leaders in Moscow and follows a broader focus on Russia’s efforts to build low-Earth-orbit internet and communications capabilities.

Several outlets report that Putin frames the praise as part of an effort to avoid interference in orbit while Russia builds its own approach. Coverage also connects the remarks to Russia’s gradual work on a homegrown constellation described as a counterpart to SpaceX’s Starlink, including references to early steps and launches. Bloomberg adds that Putin says coordination covers low-Earth-orbit satellite networks even amid political tensions between Moscow and Washington, positioning the discussion as pragmatic despite strained relations.

Across reports, outlets largely agree on the core elements: Putin’s public compliment, his claim of contact or coordination with Musk, and Russia’s stated plan to develop its own constellation to support its needs. Differences are mostly in emphasis—some stress Russia’s “copy” or “plans for” framing, while others focus more on the diplomatic or coordination dimension.