Elon Musk has responded to a Belarusian opposition plea to use his lever “to stop dictatorship”. People on Twitter were full of ideas about how the extravagant billionaire can help.
Belarus is facing the worst wave of anti-government protests the country has seen in decades, and the opposition could use an ally like two. A wealthy American, like, say, Bill Gates or Elon Musk, could have enough power to lean on President Alexander Lukashenko.
Sorry to hear that. What can we do to help?
– Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 13, 2020
At least, that seems to be the idea behind a Twitter post to which Musk responded on Thursday. Apparently moved by scenes of violence unfolding in Belarusian streets and the dramatic music that accompanied them, the billionaire asked how he could help. An abundance of ideas flooded the comments.
Some were quick to offer amusing as impractical solutions to the current problems of Belarus, like, why not put Lukashenko in a Tesla car and send them both into orbit? Or use Musk’s technical know-how to deploy “justice robots“Against the Belarusian police?”
Please place Lukashenko in the Tesla car and launch it into space
– re シ ア 愛国者 🇷🇺 ♡ 🏳️🌈 (@ re1i1er) August 13, 2020
Other observers were more to Earth. One popular question was to give Belarus access to the Internet via Starlink satellites to combat suspected throttling of traffic by the Belarussian government. Musk could also use his connections at high places in the US to encourage wider coverage of events in Belarus on western mainstream media, some people suggested.
Dear @elonmusk. Today, people in Belarus are protesting for free elections and democracy, risking their lives, and freedom. During protests, authorities shut down the Internet, disrupting live streams watched by millions. Can you include us in your Starlink beta test program? We are 52-53 ° N
– Franak Viačorka (@franakviacorka) August 13, 2020
Probably the most direct request came from the author of the original post, a feminist activist from Russia. Sy placed a link explaining how Musk if anyone interested could donate money to the protesters.
There were also skeptics who suggested that foreign players, including Musk, should stay out of the Belarusian stand-off.
I know these things do not often play out for a strategic hand; but it is handy that it comes at a time when America feels extra oppressed. The last time America helped in the liberation of a country, they were better off before we ‘helped’.
– Subjectivism (@Limpidliestish) August 13, 2020
After all, Washington does not really have a good record of bringing stability and prosperity to countries struggling with civil unrest. And honestly, it has its domestic protest plate full at the moment.
Also on rt.com
Big Belarus manufacturers including car giant BelAZ hit by strikes as anti-goat protest continues to rattle the country (VIDEOS)
If you like this story, share it with a friend!
