Musk Says Trump Linked to Epstein as Feud Erupts

The political alliance between Donald Trump and Elon Musk has unraveled in dramatic fashion, erupting into a bitter and highly public feud.

It began when former President Trump expressed that he was “surprised and disappointed” by Musk’s criticism of his flagship spending bill. Trump said the two had shared a “great relationship,” but added, “I don’t know if we will anymore.”

Musk fired back on his social media platform X, posting a series of scathing remarks. He accused Trump of making “false” claims about his support for the budget bill, called him “ungrateful” for past political donations, and claimed that Trump would not have won the election without his financial backing. Musk also warned that Trump's trade policies, including tariffs, could push the U.S. economy into recession.

The row escalated further when Musk made an explosive—though unsubstantiated—allegation, claiming that Donald Trump is named in sealed court documents related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Musk suggested this was “the real reason” the files remain confidential.

In response, Trump hinted at retaliatory action, suggesting the government could save billions by terminating federal contracts and subsidies linked to Musk’s companies, including Tesla and SpaceX.

Musk then called for Trump's impeachment.

Reeta Chakrabarti presents BBC News at Ten, with reporting from Sarah Smith and Simon Jack.