Elon Musk is harming the world’s most disadvantaged children by reducing USAID funding.

Gates Criticizes Musk’s Stance on Foreign Aid

On Thursday, Bill Gates expressed strong disapproval of Elon Musk, accusing him of jeopardizing the welfare of impoverished children worldwide by advocating for the dismantling of U.S. foreign aid programs.

In an interview with the Financial Times, the Microsoft co-founder suggested that Musk’s push to eliminate funding for the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) stems from a lack of understanding and could have serious consequences.

“The images of the world’s richest man harming the poorest children aren’t pretty,” Gates remarked.

Gates highlighted how Musk’s actions have impacted aid to hospitals in Mozambique, which play a crucial role in preventing the transmission of HIV from mothers to their newborns.

There was misinformation circulating, leading to a belief that the U.S. was supplying condoms to Hamas in Gaza, which, apparently, has also been connected to Musk’s narrative.

“He cut that funding, and I hope he eventually meets with children affected by HIV,” Gates added.

A spokesperson from the White House defended Musk, referring to him as a patriot committed to eliminating government waste. “We should appreciate the efforts of America’s most innovative business leaders,” said Harrison Fields.

In February, under Musk’s leadership, the newly established Government Efficiency Bureau (DOGE) effectively shut down USAID, declaring it “time to die.” Gates claimed this funding cut has already resulted in life-saving vaccines and medications expiring in storage, thereby raising the risk of diseases like HIV, measles, and polio.

This criticism comes as Gates recently announced plans to fast-track the efforts of his foundation over the next two decades, committing to allocate a significant portion of his wealth before closing it by 2045. He aims for the foundation to distribute over $200 billion, which is double what it spent in its first 25 years.

“This gives us clarity,” Gates explained, noting that their long-term engagement has increased funding potential rather than seeking a permanent foundation status.

Gates pointed out that Musk’s attitude poses challenges to U.S. development assistance. In response, Musk has disparaged USAID, claiming Gates fails to grasp the functions and administration of U.S. agencies.

The rivalry between these tech giants has been ongoing, particularly regarding the nuances of philanthropy. Musk had pledged a sizeable donation in 2012, but later criticized charitable contributions, suggesting that companies like Tesla could deliver more efficient solutions to global challenges.

The relationship soured further in 2022 when Gates shorted Tesla stocks, which led Musk to post a mocking image of him on social media.

Gates had hoped for some recovery of funds with a more measured approach toward President Trump, although he cautioned that Trump’s potential return could threaten the tax-exempt status of the Gates Foundation and voiced concerns over Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s health secretary appointment.

“Kennedy has been misrepresenting the truth regarding vaccines and my involvement,” Gates remarked.

A spokesperson from Health and Human Services stated that Kennedy is not anti-vaccine but emphasizes safety and transparency in medical interventions.

“His long-standing advocacy focuses on ensuring that vaccines meet the highest safety standards supported by quality science,” the spokesperson added.