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Merkel Raises Concerns Over Musk’s Influence on Trump and Global Politics

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Merkel Criticizes Big Business Influence

Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel has expressed alarm over the growing influence of tech magnates like Elon Musk on politics, particularly regarding former U.S. President Donald Trump. In an interview with Der Spiegel, published ahead of her memoir’s release, Merkel highlighted the challenges posed when corporate power overshadows democratic governance.

“If the ultimate recourse of politics is influenced too strongly by companies—through capital or technological capabilities—it poses an unprecedented challenge for all of us,” Merkel stated, emphasizing the importance of balancing the interests of ordinary citizens against those of powerful corporations.

Concerns Over Musk’s Expanding Role

Merkel singled out Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, as a concerning example. Musk was reportedly tapped by Trump to co-lead a newly envisioned Department of Government Efficiency, which the former president-elect had indicated would operate outside traditional government frameworks.

Merkel pointed to Musk’s vast control over global satellite networks. “If someone like him owns 60% of all satellites orbiting in space, then that has to be a huge concern for us,” she said. Musk’s SpaceX, through its Starlink satellite internet network, operates over 6,000 satellites used worldwide by governments, corporations, and consumers.

Reflections on Multilateralism and Trump

In her forthcoming memoir, Freedom: Memories 1954-2021, Merkel shares insights into her experiences with global leaders, including Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Speaking to Der Spiegel, she lamented Trump’s approach to international relations, noting that his worldview, rooted in a “winner-takes-all” mentality, undermined multilateral cooperation.

“Trump’s re-election filled me with sadness,” Merkel admitted, underscoring the difficulties of maintaining collaborative global efforts in the face of such divisive politics.

Memoir Release and Legacy Concerns

Merkel’s memoir, set to be released on November 26 in over 30 countries, has garnered significant attention. She will launch the book in the U.S. alongside former President Barack Obama in December. The release comes at a time when Merkel’s 16-year tenure is under scrutiny, as Germany faces economic challenges and growing political and international crises.

The memoir promises a candid look at Merkel’s leadership during pivotal global events and offers a reflection on the delicate balance of power between governments, corporations, and individuals.

Germany Tightens Borders Amid Rising Far-Right Pressure, Marking the End of ‘Welcome Culture’

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Germany has reintroduced border controls with several European countries, signaling a dramatic shift from its once liberal migration policies known as Wilkommenskultur. Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s government announced the reinstatement of controls at borders with Belgium, Holland, Luxembourg, France, Denmark, and others. These actions come as the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party gains influence, pushing migration issues to the forefront of national debates.

Once a symbol of open borders, Germany is now responding to growing domestic pressure. The AfD, which has campaigned strongly on anti-immigration platforms, capitalized on recent terror attacks involving migrants and has seen electoral success in former East German states like Thuringia and Saxony. Their rise, along with public discontent over migration, has forced Scholz to tighten border policies, despite the potential backlash from EU neighbors.

AfD co-leader Alice Weidel has criticized Germany’s past approach, claiming the country had “become a place where anyone can enter unchecked.” As the AfD grows in prominence, Scholz’s government faces challenges in maintaining support, especially as polls in Brandenburg suggest further losses for the ruling Social Democratic Party.

Germany’s new stance represents a significant departure from the policies of former Chancellor Angela Merkel, who opened the country’s doors to millions of refugees in 2015. The shift also poses a challenge to the broader Schengen zone, as growing concerns over migration lead to stricter border control measures across Europe.