The obsession of Elon Musk with international politics in 14 points

Elon Musk recently supported the Alternative for Germany (AfD), a far-right German party, by participating in a video conference rally. He criticized multiculturalism and encouraged Germans to “be proud of being German,” sparking outrage, particularly from Chancellor Olaf Scholz and families of Holocaust victims. In December 2024, Musk had already expressed his support for the AfD via his platform X (formerly Twitter) and in an op-ed published in Die Welt, criticizing traditional parties. His actions, perceived as political interference ahead of the 2025 elections, have been strongly condemned.

Elon Musk has sparked controversy by proposing a peace plan for the Russo-Ukrainian conflict, which includes recognizing Crimea as Russian, and threatening to withdraw Starlink, crucial for Ukrainian military communications. These actions have been harshly criticized by Ukraine and the international community. In 2023, he worsened tensions by posting a meme on X, mocking President Zelenskyy and the American aid sent to Ukraine, interpreted as a criticism of Ukraine’s reliance on foreign support.

Elon Musk supported Donald Trump by reactivating his Twitter account after the acquisition of the platform, while openly criticizing Democrats and Joe Biden, whom he accused of lacking leadership. In 2022, he called for a Republican vote, stating that Democrats had become a party of “division.” Twitter, under his leadership, is perceived as a tool amplifying conservative voices, fueling controversies over political polarization in the United States. His partisan management and criticisms of the Biden administration have reinforced his image as a controversial figure in the American political landscape, attracting as much support as criticism.

Elon Musk has strongly criticized the European Union, particularly the Digital Services Act (DSA), which he claims restricts freedom of expression on digital platforms. He has also denounced the “bureaucratic” regulations that, in his view, hinder technological innovation and business growth. Musk has pressured for European subsidies, particularly for Tesla, while criticizing administrative delays. During the recent energy crisis, he urged European countries to reopen their nuclear power plants, sparking debates. His frequent criticisms of European climate and regulatory policies have heightened tensions with the bloc’s leaders.

Elon Musk, originally from South Africa, is ironically regularly criticized for his lack of investment and commitment to his home country. He has avoided commenting on crucial issues such as racial inequality, land reform, and persistent economic challenges. This silence is perceived by many as a disinterest in South African issues. Furthermore, Musk is criticized for not using his influence to stimulate innovation or support local development, contrasting with his initiatives in other countries. These criticisms highlight a disconnect between his origins and his priorities, raising questions about his values and responsibility towards his homeland.

Elon Musk has cultivated close ties with China to ensure Tesla’s success, avoiding criticism of sensitive topics like Taiwan. He proposed that Taiwan become a “special administrative zone,” a suggestion favorably received by Beijing but criticized by Taiwan and its allies. In 2022, he contributed to the official publication “China Cyberspace,” advocating for sustainable energy, which seemed to contradict his defense of free speech. During a visit in May 2023, he praised the “vitality of Chinese development.” However, in 2025, he denounced the ban on X in China in light of TikTok’s success in the United States.

Elon Musk has criticized several aspects of Canadian policies. He supported the ‘Freedom Convoy’ in 2022, praising truckers protesting against vaccine mandates with tweets like ‘Canadian truckers rule’, sparking a debate about his position. He compared Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to dictators, causing major controversy. Musk also denounced Canadian telecom regulations, claiming they slow down innovation, while promoting Starlink as a solution for underserved rural communities. His positions have polarized opinion, with some applauding his commitment to freedom, while others denounce his political interference.

Elon Musk criticized French policies, notably high taxes and strict regulations, which he sees as obstacles to foreign investment. He also commented on the protests against the pension reform in 2023, calling the reactions of the French people “excessive,” which sparked outrage from unions. Although he met with Emmanuel Macron to discuss investments, particularly in electric batteries, Musk criticized the rigidity of labor laws. His statements have divided opinions, with some praising his candor, while others denounced his lack of understanding of French social specifics.

Elon Musk has recently intensified his criticisms of the United Kingdom, specifically targeting Prime Minister Keir Starmer. In August 2024, he reacted to the riots by stating that “civil war is inevitable,” sparking a fierce controversy. Musk also accused Starmer of promoting a two-tier justice system, before suggesting in January 2025 that the latter should be arrested for his past management as chief prosecutor during child sex exploitation scandals. These statements have provoked strong reactions in the United Kingdom, with many observers denouncing Musk’s political interference.

In 2022, Elon Musk collaborated with Jair Bolsonaro to deploy Starlink in the Amazon, improving connectivity in rural areas but drawing criticism for his implicit support of a controversial president. After the election of Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Musk criticized the new government’s priorities, heightening tensions. Moreover, in 2024, Musk refused to comply with Brazilian regulations on content moderation on X, particularly regarding electoral misinformation. In response, the Supreme Court of Brazil temporarily banned X for non-compliance with local laws, citing risks to democracy.

In India, Elon Musk denounced the import taxes that he considers excessive and a barrier to Tesla’s entry into the market. He demanded their reduction before considering the construction of a factory. At the same time, Starlink was prematurely launched without approval, resulting in government sanctions. Musk’s criticisms of Indian bureaucracy, which he accuses of stifling innovation, reflect a tension with his business ambitions in electric vehicles and space technologies.

Elon Musk is a polarizing figure in Australia. On one hand, he was praised for the installation of a giant battery in South Australia in 2017, helping to resolve an energy crisis. On the other hand, his recent criticisms of the Australian government, particularly labeling a bill aimed at combating online misinformation as “fascist”, have sparked negative reactions. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the “social responsibility” of social media in response to Musk’s remarks. These tensions have influenced public perception, with some Australians appreciating his technological innovations, while others disapprove of his perceived interference in national politics.

Elon Musk claimed to have “secured” funding to take Tesla private in a tweet posted in August 2018, citing the Saudi sovereign fund as a potential partner. This statement drew criticism over his association with a controversial regime, known for human rights violations, particularly in the Khashoggi case. The SEC’s investigation concluded that these claims were misleading. Musk and Tesla each paid a $20 million fine, and Musk had to temporarily step down as chairman of Tesla’s board. The case raised further questions about his ethical priorities and his impulsive use of social media.

In 2022, Elon Musk sparked controversy by proposing a peace plan for the war in Ukraine, which included the permanent cession of Crimea to Russia and the adoption of a position of neutrality by Kyiv. This initiative, perceived as favorable to Russia, was widely criticized. Moreover, reports suggest that Musk has had regular exchanges with Russian President Vladimir Putin since late 2022, discussing various topics, including personal, business, and geopolitical issues, raising concerns about possible Russian influence on his decisions and statements.