Extremist or clumsy enthusiast: what reaction did Elon Musk's “Nazi salute” provoke?

A leading American anti-Semitism organization came to the defense of Elon Musk and called for leniency.

The controversial greeting of the American billionaire Elon Musk, similar to the “Nazi salute”, which he made during the speech after the inauguration of the 47th US President Donald Trump, caused a violent reaction in America and Europe.

According to information BBC, in the USA Trump's gesture was criticized by both Democrats and Republicans.

The Republicans Against Trump movement published a video with this gesture on the X platform and was one of the first to call it a “Nazi salute.” And a member of the House of Representatives from the state of New York, Democrat Jerry Nadler emphasized that this behavior of Musk is unacceptable.

“This repugnant gesture has no place in our society, and belongs to the darkest chapters of human history. I urge all my colleagues to unite and condemn this hateful gesture for what it is: anti-Semitism,” Nadler wrote.

The Anti-Defamation League (ADL), the leading American organization fighting anti-Semitism and defending Jewish rights, called Musk's gesture a “clumsy display of enthusiasm.”

“This is a delicate moment. It's a new day, and yet many of us are on edge. Our politics are overheated, and social media is only exacerbating the anxiety. It seems Elon Musk made an awkward gesture in a moment of enthusiasm, not a Nazi salute. But again, we understand that people are on edge. At this point, all parties need to show each other some leniency, perhaps even apply the presumption of innocence, and take a breath. This is a new beginning. Let's hope for healing and work toward unity in the months and years ahead,” – said the ADL.

Reaction of European politicians

German Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz, during a discussion at the World Economic Forum in Davos on Tuesday, January 21, said that he does not support the “right-wing extremist positions” of Elon Musk.

“Regarding Elon Musk's behavior, I have had to comment on many of his statements in the past, because he has spoken a lot about Europe. I want to emphasize: we have freedom of speech – in Europe, in Germany – and everyone has the right to say what they think, even a billionaire. But we do not support right-wing extremist positions,” – quotes Scholz “Ukrinform”.

On the same day, Spanish Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Díaz announced that she would delete her account on the social platform X, owned by Elon Musk.

“I have made this decision, and I know it is difficult. But I will not be part of a social network that is based on the use of algorithms that encourage xenophobic ideas, contradict human rights and encourage the far right in the world,” she told the state-run TVE channel.

According to her, Elon Musk's unacceptable position was evidenced by “not only his gestures, but also his completely confused speeches.”