Tesla owner, Elon Musk and former EU Commissioner for Internal Market, Thierry Breton, have engaged in a public dispute over accusations of foreign interference in German politics.
The controversy began when Musk expressed support for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, describing it as the only solution for the country’s future.
Musk tweeted, “Only the AfD can save Germany.”
The comment, made just weeks before Germany’s upcoming elections and following a violent attack in Magdeburg, drew sharp criticism from the former European Union official.
Breton criticised Musk’s endorsement of the AfD, describing it as a clear example of external meddling in European politics.
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He highlighted the timing of Musk’s statement, linking it to the sensitive political climate in Germany, and called for strict enforcement of the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA) to address what he described as double standards regarding foreign political influence.
He responded, “A few weeks ahead of the next elections in Germany, and at the time of the heinous attack in Magdeburg, @elonmusk — the world’s top influencer on X and a potential member of the future U.S. administration — openly supports the far-right AfD party.
“Isn’t this the very definition of foreign interference? We must end the “double standards” and apply the #DSA in Europe 🇪🇺.”
Musk dismissed Breton’s concerns, downplaying the accusation of interference and referencing historical events to argue against the claim.
He wrote, “Bro, American “foreign interference” is the only reason you’re not speaking German or Russian rn lmao.”
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