Elon Musk, the world’s richest man, has been using his influence as owner of social media platform X to interfere in the domestic politics of several European countries and attack the European Union itself. Despite having a limited understanding of Europe, Musk has been making headlines with his erratic remarks.
In the UK, Musk claimed that Britain was a “tyrannical police state” under Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government, despite being starstruck by Sunak before becoming PM. He also made accusations against Starmer and other politicians, calling for King Charles to dissolve parliament and for Starmer to be jailed.
Musk’s criticisms of Germany took aim at the far-right Alternative für Deutschland party, with whom he expressed admiration. The chancellor, Olaf Scholz, called Musk a “fool,” while president Frank-Walter Steinmeier labeled him an “anti-democratic tyrant.”
In the EU, Musk frequently attacked Brussels and the European Commission, which has ruled that X violates its Digital Services Act (DSA). He also sparred with former commissioner Thierry Breton, calling his criticism of AfD support as “foreign interference.”
Musk’s attacks have sparked concerns about his influence in Europe. The billionaire’s own business interests may be at risk due to the EU’s digital rulebook.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2025/jan/11/how-elon-musk-has-meddled-in-european-affairs