France Pushes EU to Defend Itself Against Musk and Outside Influence
France, through Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, wants the European Union to vigorously defend itself against “external interference.” Earlier, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez strongly expressed a similar view. The target is Elon Musk, the hero of incessant posts against virtually all European governments.
“Fascism has already become the third political force in Europe, and a far-right international led by the richest man on the planet is openly attacking our institutions, inciting hatred, openly calling for support for the heirs of Nazism in Germany in the next election to be held in Europe’s most important economic country. This is a challenge that concerns all of us who believe in democracy,” Sanchez explained, speaking at a celebration marking the 50th anniversary of the death of Spanish dictator Francisco Franco.
French Minister Barrot, speaking to Radio France International, explained that “the European Commission will either apply with the utmost rigor the existing laws to protect our unique space or it will not, in which case it should consider restoring the possibility for EU member states to do so.” British Prime Minister Starmer and German Chancellor Scholz have also lashed out at the South African-born tycoon, but the European Union continues to remain quiet, asking Musk to simply act “within the law” and not use social media “inappropriately.”
Musk’s statements, communicated through his X social network, are viewed negatively by many, even in his home country. Steve Bannon, Trump’s former strategist, caused a furor in an interview with the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, saying: “I will ensure that Elon Musk is kicked out by the time he takes office. He won’t have a blue pass with full access to the White House. He’ll be just like everyone else.” And more: “He’s really an evil man. For me, stopping him has become a personal issue. At first, because he had invested so much money, I was willing to tolerate it. Not anymore.”
