French President Emmanuel Macron has sharply criticized Elon Musk, accusing the tech billionaire of meddling in European elections, including next monthโs snap federal polls in Germany.
Speaking during a foreign policy address in Paris, Macron didnโt mention Musk by name but left little doubt about his target. The French leader condemned what he described as the “direct intervention” of a global social media mogul in Germanyโs political landscape, specifically over alleged support for the far-right Alternative fรผr Deutschland (AfD) party.
“Who could have imagined, just a decade ago, that the owner of one of the worldโs largest social networks would take such a direct role in electionsโeven in Germany?” Macron said, as reported by the Associated Press.
The Rise of a โReactionary Internationalโ
Macron went further, accusing Muskโowner of the social media platform Xโof promoting what he called a “new reactionary international movement.” He expressed deep concern over the dangers of consolidating immense power in the hands of a few wealthy individuals, warning of the destabilizing effects on democratic systems.
“This kind of unchecked influence not only undermines our democratic values but also threatens the unity of Europe,” Macron said, urging vigilance against external forces seeking to exploit vulnerabilities in the continent’s political fabric.
Macron: A Growing Chorus of Concern Across Europe
Macronโs critique reflects a broader unease among European leaders over Muskโs perceived sway in global politics. German Chancellor Olaf Scholzโs administration has also spoken out, dismissing Muskโs alleged influence as overblown.
“We are a country of 84 million people, with the majority being reasonable and decent. The idea that one manโs statements could sway our democracy is an overestimation,” a government spokesperson told Deutsche Welle.
In the UK, Prime Minister Keir Starmer also weighed in during a press conference on child protection issues. Musk had previously accused Starmer of negligence during his time as a prosecutorโa claim Starmer firmly rejected as “self-serving lies.” Without naming Musk, he took aim at those spreading falsehoods.
“Those who push lies and misinformation care little for victims. Their focus is purely on themselves,” Starmer told Sky News.
Meanwhile, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stรธre voiced his apprehensions. “Itโs deeply concerning that someone with vast social media reach and immense financial power involves himself so directly in the domestic affairs of other nations,” he said in an interview with public broadcaster NRK.
A Curious Contrast with Trump
While Macron took Musk to task, he struck a notably different tone when discussing U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. Macron described France as a “solid ally” to Trump, signaling openness to collaboration under the new administration.
This diplomatic gesture toward Trump, juxtaposed with his sharp rebuke of Musk, highlights Europeโs balancing act in navigating external influences.
Macronโs remarks underline a broader challenge for European democracies grappling with the influence of powerful individuals and platforms in shaping political narratives. As the continent gears up for pivotal elections, the stakes for safeguarding democratic integrity have never been higher.
