Elon Musk raises European tensions with political sway
Elon Musk, often referred to as the "co-president" of the USA, is exerting pressure to influence changes in European governments while avoiding criticism of China and Russia. According to the "Financial Times," this presents a significant challenge for Europe.
Elon Musk, a well-known entrepreneur and owner of Platform X, is perceived as the "co-president" of the USA. His actions aim to influence changes in the governments of allied European countries, while he refrains from criticizing China and Russia. These conclusions are shared by the "Financial Times" in its latest analysis, cited by the Polish Press Agency.
Edward Luce, author of a commentary in the "Financial Times," notes that although Elon Musk has not been elected by US citizens, his influence on international politics is significant. Musk publicly questions the governments of Western European countries, suggesting, for example, that U.S. "should liberate the people of Britain from their tyrannical government." Additionally, he expresses support for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), claiming that only this party can "save Germany."
Commentators speculate whether Musk acts independently or with the backing of President-elect Donald Trump. If his actions are independent, countries like the United Kingdom and Germany can address them. In the United Kingdom, Musk faces widespread disapproval, which limits his influence. Furthermore, his lack of knowledge on political issues works against him.
Platform X, under Musk's leadership, has become a tool of his influence. Musk publicly declared that only the AfD can "save Germany," an unprecedented endorsement of a far-right party. His actions highlight the tensions in German politics, where mainstream parties condemned his behaviour and accused him of trying to influence election outcomes.
Silence on China and Russia
The "Financial Times" emphasises that equally important is what Musk does not say. He does not speak about political prisoners in China or Russia. Instead, he focuses on a sexual scandal from years ago in the United Kingdom, ignoring the fate 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 ignoring Musk's actions would be a mistake. His aversion to European liberal democracy is genuine. Europe must prepare for challenging times, as previous assumptions about stability may prove to be unfounded.
Musk's actions could prompt a response from the European Union, which may apply the Digital Services Act to curtail the practices of Platform X if it finds they violate EU regulations. The current discourse indicates growing tensions between Musk's actions and European regulations, which aim to protect democratic processes.
