Timothy Snyder, a Yale historian and bestselling author, recently addressed the concerning proximity and influence of Elon Musk on the incoming President Donald Trump. “Trump is a little guy, and Musk is a big guy when it actually comes to having money,” Snyder remarked, suggesting that those close to Trump should be wary of this dynamic. Snyder, known for significant works like On Tyranny (2017) and On Freedom (2024), shared his insights about Trump’s upcoming administration while also discussing his philanthropic efforts in Ukraine, where he has partnered with actor Mark Hamill to fundraise for advanced robotic mine-clearing technology to assist civilians amid ongoing conflict.

Snyder analyzed the potential for discord between Trump and Musk as they navigate governance together. “I think we overestimate Trump and we underestimate Musk,” he asserted. Despite public perceptions, Snyder insists that Trump’s financial prowess has been overstated. “He’s never really had money. His whole notion is that you have to believe that he has money.” In contrast, he highlighted Musk’s vast resources, which have enabled him to fund Trump’s campaign significantly.

Musk's influence has extended beyond financial backing; he has been pivotal in shaping Trump’s political strategies, including facilitating key appointments such as that of JD Vance for Vice President. Snyder noted the ongoing presence of Musk next to Trump, who has earned the tongue-in-cheek title of “first buddy.” The collaboration has led to ambitious proposals, such as slashing trillions from federal expenditure through a newly established department, dubbed “Doge.”

As Trump prepares to re-enter the White House, the historian pointed out potential complications, especially as Trump contemplates strategies for dealing with a divided Republican party. “All the threats that Trump is now going to issue – ‘I’m going to primary people, I’m going to sue people’ – Musk is going to pay for that, not Trump.” Snyder voiced concerns that Trump may find himself trapped in a “dependent relationship” with Musk, particularly as he faces ongoing financial pressures.

The nuances of Trump’s historical view of Russia, alongside his previously controversial dealings with Vladimir Putin, remain significant in shaping the new administration. Snyder, whose 2018 work The Road to Unfreedom examined these tensions, alluded to an emerging phrase he coined: “Trumpomuskovia,” reflecting a perceived parallel between Trump’s presidency and the political landscape seen in 1990s Russia, marked by a powerful oligarchy overshadowing weaker leadership.

“In the new U.S. political environment, we might be witnessing a scenario akin to that of Russia with a rich but ineffective president surrounded by ambitious oligarchs,” he concluded. As Trump’s presidency looms, Snyder’s predictions raise critical questions about the future direction of U.S. policy and governance, particularly regarding support for Ukraine amid ongoing aggression from Russia.

For further details, refer to the original articles from The Guardian and The Guardian.