Washington, July 1 -- US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (local time) claimed that Tesla CEO Elon Musk's business would not survive without government subsidies, suggesting that Musk would "probably have to close up shop and head back home to South Africa" if subsidies are not given to him.

Trump stated that Musk was aware of his view against the electric vehicle mandate long before he endorsed him for US President. He stated that electric vehicles are fine; however, everyone should not be forced to purchase one. He asked the Department of Government Efficiency to have a "good look" at the subsidies given to Musk.

In a statement shared on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump stated, "Elon Musk knew, long before he so strongly...