The Federal Emergency Management Agency has responded to billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk's claims regarding the alleged forfeiture of his Starlink internet system.
“It's very real and frightening how much control they have in place to prevent people from helping.”
Musk made allegations about the alleged actions from FEMA against Starlink, which he also owns, on X, a social media platform he owns.
“I received this memo from a SpaceX engineer assisting on the ground in North Carolina.” I wrote Musk.
“Hi Elon, stay up to date with our site in Asheville, North Carolina. We have powered up two large operating bases for helicopters to get goods to your doorstep. We have over 300 The big problem is that FEMA is actively blocking shipments, seizing goods and services on the ground, and claiming them as their own. It's about being locked up.
It's very real and scary how much control they have to stop people from helping. Currently, new Starlink shipments are being blocked until fire department escorts arrive. But that may not be enough. ”
“Not only is @FEMA not adequately helping those in need, they are actively blocking citizens who are trying to help!” he added.
Musk followed up with further accusations later Friday.
“SpaceX engineers are currently trying to deliver Starlink terminals and supplies to devastated areas of North Carolina, but @FEMA is failing to help and won't let others help. .This is unconscionable!!”
he wrote.
The tweet also included a video of the devastation in North Carolina.
“@FEMA was not going to land them to deliver critical supplies…my blood is boiling,” he added.
FEMA responds
Jaclyn Rothenberg, FEMA's director of public affairs, issued a clear denial of the accusations in an email to Blaze News.
“Claims that FEMA is confiscating or expropriating goods, supplies, or resources in North Carolina, Tennessee, or Helen-affected states are false. As of October 3, FEMA continues to work with federal agencies, state and local partners in affected areas to effectively deliver relief resources to areas affected by Helen. “We deployed more than 10,000 ready-to-eat meals (MREs), 12.6 million liters of water, more than 400,000 tarpaulins, and 150 generators,” the statement said.
“Connectivity is critical to disaster response. FEMA has successfully deployed Starlink in multiple disasters to support disaster operations, including disasters in Guam, Hawaii, and Alaska.” she added. “FEMA helped provide Starlink terminals to North Carolina, which includes the Eastern Band of Cherokee Nation and critical lifelines.” Nationally defined locations. These units support state and local governments, urban search and rescue, and disaster coordination. Starlink units are being deployed to multiple states to support Hurricane Helen response efforts. ”
FEMA also directed Blaze News: rumor pageespecially when authorities are dealing with accusations that they were confiscating supplies meant for civilian hurricane relief.
FEMA does not accept donations or food from survivors or volunteer organizations. Donations of food, water, and other items are handled by volunteer organizations that specialize in storing, sorting, cleaning, and distributing donated items.
FEMA does not conduct vehicle stops or respond to road closures with armed guards. These are carried out by local police.
Officials say 220 people have been confirmed dead from the hurricane, but many more are expected as relief efforts continue.
Information on disaster relief activities is as follows.
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