The European Union is grappling with how to respond to posts by Musk on his social media site X in recent weeks that have castigated elected leaders and generated consternation across Europe.
The concern over Musk, the world's richest man and an ally of US President-elect Donald Trump, is particularly felt in capitals where the political mainstream is under pressure from right-wing populist parties.
Musk's comments endorsing the anti-immigration, anti-Islamic Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, labelled as right-wing extremists by German security services, ahead of a parliamentary election in February have especially worried European leaders.
Some European governments are pressing the European Commission to use its legal arsenal against Musk's perceived interference.
"Either the European Commission applies with the greatest firmness the laws that exist to protect our unique space or it does not, and in that case it should think about giving the capacity to do so back to EU member states," French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot told France Inter radio.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez accused Musk on Wednesday of undermining democracy, without directly naming him.
This story is from the January 09, 2025 edition of Khaleej Times.
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This story is from the January 09, 2025 edition of Khaleej Times.
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