Elon Musk sparks European tensions while silent on Russia and China
Elon Musk, often referred to as the "co-president of the USA," is exerting pressure on European governments while avoiding any criticism of China and Russia. According to the "Financial Times," this creates a significant challenge for Europe.
Elon Musk, the well-known entrepreneur and owner of the X platform, is perceived as having a considerable influence akin to a "co-president" of the USA. His actions aim to effect change within the governments of allied European nations, while he steers clear of criticizing China and Russia. These observations are detailed in a recent analysis by the "Financial Times".
Edward Luce, commenting for the "Financial Times," observes that although Elon Musk has not been elected by American citizens, his influence on international politics is substantial. Musk publicly questions the governments of Western European countries and suggests, for instance, that "should liberate" the British from their "tyrannical government." He also expresses support for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), asserting that only this party can "save Germany."
Commentators are debating whether Musk is acting independently or if he has backing from President-elect Donald Trump. If his actions are independent, countries like the United Kingdom and Germany might be able to manage them. In the UK, Musk faces widespread disapproval, which limits his influence, and his ignorance of political matters further undermines his position.
The X platform, under Musk's leadership, has become a tool for his influence. His public declaration that only the AfD can "save Germany" has been criticized as unprecedented support for a far-right party. His actions have heightened tensions in German politics, where mainstream parties have condemned his behavior and accused him of attempting to sway election outcomes.
Silence on China and Russia
The "Financial Times" highlights that what Musk doesn't discuss is just as important. He remains silent on political prisoners in China or Russia. Instead, he focuses on a historical scandal in the United Kingdom, ignoring the plight of approximately 20,000 Ukrainian children abducted from their homeland.
Musk reinforces Trump's admiration for Russia and his disdain for Europe. The "Financial Times" warns that overlooking Musk's actions would be a mistake. His contempt for European liberal democracy is palpable, suggesting that Europe must brace for challenging times as assumptions about stability could be misguided.
Europe may respond to Musk's actions through the European Union by potentially applying the Digital Services Act to curb practices on the X platform if they are found to violate EU regulations. The current discourse indicates growing tensions between Musk's actions and European measures designed to protect democratic processes.
