Elon Musk has the right to express his opinion as a private citizen, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken said today. He commented on the billionaire's support for far-right politicians and political groups in Europe, reported "Agence France-Presse", quoted by BTA.
"Private citizens in our country can say whatever they want," Blinken emphasized at a press conference in Paris, held jointly with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot. "He, like every American, has the right to express his opinion," added the head of American diplomacy.
For weeks, Musk has been drawing criticism for his provocative statements on the social network "X", where he actively participates in political debates. His statements in support of the radical right in the United Kingdom and Germany have attracted particular attention, which has prompted a number of senior European officials to express their indignation.
French Foreign Minister Barrot called on the European Commission to protect the public space of member states against external interference.
"Either the European Commission will strictly implement the laws adopted to protect public debate, or it will have to hand this responsibility back to the member states," Barrot said.
Earlier, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez accused Musk of "inciting hatred" and "attacks on institutions". In the same vein, French President Emmanuel Macron described the positions of the world's richest man as support for a "reactionary international" that threatens European democracies.