From backing Germany’s far-right AfD party to criticizing British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Elon Musk’s social media posts on X are stirring up diplomatic challenges|Wcamp9|CC BY 4.0
Elon Musk has recently been vocal about European politics, especially on issues like free speech, immigration, and more. From backing Germany’s far-right AfD party to criticizing British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Musk’s social media posts on X are stirring up diplomatic challenges.
His 211 million followers on X amplify his influence, worrying European politicians he could sway elections in their countries at a time of political instability and economic discontent.
Musk recently targeted UK leader Starmer, accusing him of failing to act on cases involving child sexual abuse and grooming rings during his tenure as director of public prosecutions from 2008–2013.
Starmer responded to Elon Musk’s attacks this week, condemning the “lies and misinformation” on X.
He also said Starmer treated far-right protesters more harshly than others during anti-immigration protests in the UK last summer, reposting the hashtag TwoTierKeir. Musk even polled X users on whether the US should “liberate” Britain from its government.
Apart from the UK, Musk took shots at the German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, calling him a “fool” last year, and supported the country’s far-right AfD party.
However, the SpaceX CEO admires Italy’s right-wing leader, Giorgia Meloni, as her views on immigration, falling birthrates and “wokeism” align with his.
European leaders are cautious in addressing Musk and straining ties with the US as he is a major supporter and ally of President-elect Donald Trump. The billionaire’s global political ambitions show no signs of slowing.