Key Takeaways:

• Elon Musk publicly endorsed Germany's far-right AfD party via video link at a rally in Halle.
• The billionaire urged attendees to move past historical guilt related to Nazi Germany.
• Thousands protested against the AfD party in major cities across Germany as Musk's endorsement drew criticism.

Elon Musk made a significant surprise appearance during a campaign rally for Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party on January 25, addressing a crowd of 4,500 supporters in Halle, eastern Germany via video link. This marked Musk's second supportive message for the AfD in as many weeks, wherein he dubbed the party as “the best hope for the future of Germany.” His remarks have sparked controversy, especially following claims that he made a hand gesture perceived as a Nazi salute during a recent event.

During his address, Musk emphasized the importance of preserving German culture, stating, “It’s good to be proud of German culture, German values, and not to lose that in some sort of multiculturalism that dilutes everything." He pointedly remarked, “Children should not be guilty of the sins of their parents, let alone their great-grandparents,” advocating for moving past what he characterized as excessive focus on historical guilt related to Nazi crimes.

His comments have been met with backlash from various European leaders who view his comments as insensitive, especially coming just before the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz. Musk’s association with the AfD, a party that opposes immigration and often attacks mainstream media, has reignited fears of foreign influence in German politics. The party is currently polling at around 20%, a record in post-war Germany, as the country approaches its elections on February 23, 2025. Supporting this event amid rising political tensions has raised concerns about Musk's role in influencing European debates.

As Musk made headlines, thousands gathered in major cities across Germany to protest against the far-right AfD. Estimates indicate about 100,000 demonstrators participated in Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate protest alone. Activists highlighted issues of racism and the ongoing debate on immigration, standing in stark contrast to Musk’s declarations at the AfD rally. These anti-far-right protests manifested widespread public discontent with the AfD’s growing influence in German politics, even as mainstream parties refused alliances with them.

The political discourse has heated up ahead of the elections as many view Musk's participation as a significant, albeit contentious, endorsement of movement toward far-right policies. In contexts where political rhetoric surrounding national pride and cultural preservation surfaces, this dynamic adds layers to the ongoing conversation regarding government alliances within Germany. Musk, an ally of former US President Donald Trump, called for an electoral outcome that could "decide the entire fate of Europe, maybe the fate of the world," indicating the stakes he ascribed to the upcoming vote.

For more details, please check the full articles on SCMP, Reuters, and Le Monde.