German Chancellor Olaf Scholz sharply criticized the United States (U.S.) businessman Elon Musk, accusing him of using his social media power to interfere in global affairs and support far-right movements.
In an interview ahead of the elections scheduled in Germany for February 23rd, Scholz expressed concern over Musk’s influence on democratic processes in Europe.
“I met with Mr. Musk a long time ago. We spoke when he opened his factory in Brandenburg. Later, we had another phone conversation, which was also about his business interests. However, he has recently begun using his newly acquired media power to meddle in global affairs,” he said.
Scholz will run in the German elections as the candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) for a second term as head of the government. In an interview, he emphasized that the interference of powerful media entrepreneurs in public policy is not new but has been present since the 19th century.
“What currently troubles me is the support for far-right parties because it threatens democracy and coexistence in Europe. I criticize that, and I will continue to do so,” he stated.
The rise of far-right movements
The criticism comes amid growing concern in Germany over the rise of far-right movements, particularly the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which Scholz accused of seeking to divide the country through anti-immigrant rhetoric. Musk has openly supported this party, stating on his social media platform X that “only AfD can save Germany.”
On this occasion, Scholz reiterated his firm stance against far-right extremism, emphasizing that such movements pose a direct threat to Germany’s democratic values. He also highlighted how immigrants have strengthened German society with their contributions to healthcare, education, and industry.
“Germany is a country that has gained all its prosperity and economic strength thanks to the fact that many people have contributed here. Starting with the guest workers of the 1960s,” Scholz said, referring to the program that brought millions of Turkish workers to Germany.
Scholz was particularly moved by a statement from a hospital in Magdeburg, Germany, following an attack last December at a Christmas market in which six people were killed, and 300 were injured.
“They said that we wouldn’t have been able to save many lives without the numerous doctors and nurses who came from other countries and are helping us here,” he said.
Commenting on U.S.-European relations during the second term of U.S. President Donald Trump, Scholz expressed cautious optimism despite deep differences over security and trade.
“The European Union (EU) is strong. With 450 million people, it is the largest economic area in the world. Based on that, we can act independently and confidently, all with the goal of good cooperation. The transatlantic alliance, and transatlantic cooperation, are of utmost interest to us. And that’s why we will always act in a spirit of cooperation but with a firm stance because Europe is strong,” Scholz said.
The U.S. President Trump has repeatedly criticized European countries over trade imbalances, market access, and regulatory policies. He specifically targeted EU protective tariffs and environmental standards for U.S. cars, calling them trade barriers. Trump also strongly opposed European regulations affecting U.S.tech giants like Apple, Google, and Amazon, threatening to retaliate with significant counter-tariffs.
After his inauguration, Trump intensified criticism of European allies for their defense spending, demanding that they allocate 5% of their GDP to defense, more than double the current 2% NATO target.
EU-Turkey relations
When asked about potential foreign policy priorities for a second term and his perspective on cooperation between the EU and Turkey, Scholz highlighted the strong economic ties between Germany and Turkey, pointing to opportunities for deeper partnership.
“Germany’s economic relations with Turkey are very good. Trade, the exchange of goods and services continue to grow and have just reached record levels, and we can expect this trend to continue,” Scholz said.
The Social Democratic chancellor also emphasized his commitment to further strengthening dialogue and cooperation between the EU and Turkey in areas of mutual interest, including trade, security, and defense.
“The contribution Germany wants to make is to ensure that relations between Turkey and the EU improve. That’s why I have strongly advocated for the EU to continue dialogue and discussions,” Scholz said.
Regarding Turkey’s interest in purchasing Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft, Scholz stated that technical talks are underway.
“Turkey is also interested in strengthening its capabilities through the purchase of German defense systems, for example, our fighter jets,” he said.
The fighter jets are jointly produced by the United Kingdom (UK), Germany, Italy, and Spain.
