Former US President Donald Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One on 22/9 that Elon Musk approached him for a short chat. "Elon Musk came over and said hello. We had a nice little conversation. I think that's good. We've had a very good relationship, but it's nice that he did that," Trump said.

The encounter took place on 21/9 at a memorial for activist Charlie Kirk in Arizona, where Trump and Musk sat next to each other in a private room. Trump also appeared to introduce Musk to Dana White, CEO of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).

This was their first public appearance together since a heated exchange over the Trump administration's "One Big Beautiful Act" (OBBBA) several months prior. When asked if Kirk had facilitated the reconciliation, Trump stated it was "not related". Musk has not yet commented on the event.

Former US President Donald Trump (left) and Elon Musk at the memorial for Charlie Kirk in Arizona on 21/9. Photo: Epoch Times

Former US President Donald Trump (left) and Elon Musk at the memorial for Charlie Kirk in Arizona on 21/9. Photo: Epoch Times

US media outlets perceive this reunion as a sign of thawing tensions in their personal conflict, potentially impacting the Republican party, the MAGA movement, and the tech industry's relationship with the Trump administration.

Musk was previously a close ally after investing heavily in Trump's campaign and being tasked with reducing government spending. Their relationship deteriorated due to disagreements over the OBBBA, culminating in a public dispute on social media on 5/6. Following the argument, Musk called Trump and expressed regret over some posts that "went too far." Trump dismissed suggestions he wanted to harm Musk's businesses, emphasizing his hope for their continued success.

Ngoc Anh (Hill, Sky News, People)