NASA Astronauts Refute Claims of Being 'Abandoned' on ISS

Astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore address comments from Elon Musk and Donald Trump, emphasizing their preparedness and commitment during their extended stay.

NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore have rejected claims by Elon Musk and Donald Trump that they were 'abandoned' or 'stranded' on the International Space Station (ISS).
The astronauts clarified in interviews that their extended stay was due to technical issues with Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, not political decisions.
NASA decided to return the Starliner uncrewed after thruster malfunctions raised safety concerns, opting instead to bring the astronauts back using SpaceX's Crew Dragon in March.
NASA and its independent safety panel have repeatedly stated that politics played no role in the decision, citing safety as the primary concern.
Both astronauts highlighted their training and commitment, requesting a shift in narrative to focus on their readiness and accomplishments during their mission.