In a recent interview with Donald Trump on X, Elon Musk defended the oil and gas industry, stating that society should not vilify it as it provides essential energy for the economy. Musk described his views as 'pretty moderate' and suggested that transitioning to a sustainable energy economy could take '50 to 100 years', contrasting with Trump's extended timeframe of '500 to 1000 years'. Despite acknowledging the environmental risks associated with fossil fuels, Musk argued for a gradual transition without causing immediate hardship. He noted that the continued use of fossil fuels could lead to air quality issues, but maintained that there is no urgent need to rush the transition. This stance has drawn criticism, especially considering Musk's leadership in the electric vehicle sector. The discussion highlights the complex balance between energy needs and environmental concerns.