The German government sharply reacted to the repeated statements of the American billionaire Elon Musk regarding the political situation in the country.
Official Berlin perceives Musk's regular posts on the social network X, which he owns, and in the media as interference in the elections and internal affairs of Germany.
The Mask's Charge
In particular, Musk publicly called for support for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in the early Bundestag elections on February 23. In addition, he allowed himself to make insulting remarks about the current German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, calling him “Oaf Schitz.” (which can be translated as “Idiot D*rmoltz”).
The German government's reaction
In his New Year's address to citizens, Chancellor Scholz stated that the outcome of the country's elections should not be determined by the owners of social networks.
“I want us not to be fooled and to continue to choose our own path, defending democracy”, – Scholz said.
Government spokeswoman Kristan Hoffmann also condemned Musk's actions, according to The Guardian. According to her, freedom of thought is an inalienable right, but it should not include “big nonsense”.
Vice Chancellor Robert Gabeke emphasized that Musk, by supporting the AfD, is not only interfering in the German elections, but also trying to weaken Europe, contributing to the strengthening of far-right forces on the eve of the vote.
Context
Elon Musk also allowed himself to be rude to former European Commissioner and former French Minister Thierry Breton, hinting that the United States “saved France from German occupation”.