Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov recently showed off a Tesla Cybertruck equipped with a machine gun and drove it through Grozny, the capital of the Chechen Republic of Russia, in an incredibly symbolic and admiring gesture. In the video, which was uploaded to Kadyrov’s Telegram channel, he was seen complimenting Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, calling him “a great man” and “the strongest genius of our time.” In the video greeting, Kadyrov extended an invitation to Musk to visit Grozny, promising to treat the billionaire like “my most dear guest.”
The Chechen leader, who is a well-known ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, hinted that the Russian Foreign Ministry would probably have no objections to the trip. He further announced that he planned to donate the Cybertruck to the Russian forces fighting in Ukraine, calling it a “cyberbeast” as well as one of the best automobiles in the world. He expressed confidence that it would be of great benefit to the Russian troops.
Remarks by Kadyrov and the video have attracted international attention, considering the controversial background of this man who has been sanctioned by the United States on allegations of human rights abuses, including torture and extrajudicial killings. Notwithstanding that, Kadyrov claimed to have received the truck directly from Musk. It could not be independently verified.
Tesla introduced the Cybertruck as a concept vehicle in 2019, with sales beginning last year, primarily in North America. While the Cybertruck is not yet available outside this region, Musk hinted earlier this year at the possibility of it being certified for other markets by 2025.
Kadyrov’s stunt highlights the unique intersections of politics, technology, and military interests, underscoring the global impact and intrigue surrounding both Musk and his revolutionary vehicles.