Berlin: Elon Musk recently supported zero tariffs between the United States and the European Union.
This stance contradicts US President Trump’s aggressive tariff-driven trade policies.
German Economy Minister Robert Habeck sharply criticized Musk’s statements this week.
Habeck said Musk’s remarks showed “weakness” and possibly “fear” about current economic pressures.
The minister made these comments upon arrival at an EU trade ministers’ meeting on Monday.
Fear and Strategy
Habeck said Musk feared potential economic fallout from recent trade moves by the US administration.
He implied that Tesla’s falling stock price added to Musk’s public concern.
Musk’s “zero tariffs” statement came over the weekend, drawing wide international attention.
“He should speak directly to the president,” Habeck said, referring to Musk’s influence in politics.
Habeck described Trump’s trade measures as “nonsense” and “a mess” hurting economies worldwide.
Impact on Industry
The German minister claimed Musk now realizes his businesses may suffer under current US policies.
He accused Musk of trying to distance himself from damage caused by Trump’s tariffs.
Habeck said companies like Tesla would struggle if trade barriers continue rising.
Tesla’s recent stock dip has increased fears among investors and global industry observers.
Habeck believes Musk’s concern comes too late, calling it “a sign of collapsing confidence.”
Global Policy Views
Minister Habeck expressed support for global trade and long-standing cooperation between economic powers.
He warned that abandoning globalization would hurt both American and European industries.
Habeck said international alliances must stand firm against new trade restrictions.
He called for policies that benefit all economies, not only domestic industries.
“Globalization has helped everyone, especially the US,” Habeck emphasized during his remarks.
Tesla’s Positioning
Tesla remains a key American brand operating in Europe, including its large factory in Germany.
The company could face supply challenges if trade tensions intensify between the US and EU.
Analysts say Tesla relies heavily on global cooperation for materials and market access.
Musk’s desire for zero tariffs likely reflects business interests more than political statements.
Despite his support for Trump, Musk now appears worried about business fallout.
Policy Contrast Widens
Trump’s tariffs aim to boost US manufacturing and reduce trade deficits with key partners.
Musk, meanwhile, champions open trade to maintain competitive access across global markets.
The gap between these views reveals tensions within American business and political circles.
German leaders want Washington to reconsider its aggressive economic stance.
They argue such moves weaken long-term trust in the US as a trade partner.
European Perspective
Habeck’s criticism reflects rising frustration among European leaders over US trade tactics.
EU countries have warned that retaliatory measures could escalate the current economic standoff.
There are calls for both sides to de-escalate before serious damage hits industries.
European officials hope the business community can pressure Trump to soften tariffs.
Leaders stress the importance of diplomacy, even amid rising political disagreements.
Business vs. Politics
Musk’s political loyalty to Trump is now tested by threats to his business empire.
Experts say business leaders are more vocal when their companies are directly affected.
Tesla’s growth in Europe makes it vulnerable to cross-Atlantic trade disruptions.
Public comments like Musk’s may influence future negotiations between Washington and Brussels.
Still, officials like Habeck remain skeptical of private influence on national policy.
Call for Unity
Habeck urged governments to avoid policies that isolate them from allies and trading partners.
He said fear-driven decisions only harm long-term economic security and cooperation.
Global business, he said, cannot thrive under threats, retaliation, or unpredictability.
Habeck’s remarks show Europe is ready to challenge US policies openly.
The future of global trade may now depend on how fast tensions ease.
