Elon Musk, chief of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), on Saturday expressed his desire for a future with completely free trade between the United States and Europe. Speaking via video link at a congress hosted by Italy’s right-wing League Party in Florence, Musk emphasized the need to eliminate tariffs and create a transatlantic free trade zone.
“At the end of the day, I hope it’s agreed that both Europe and the United States should move ideally, in my view, to a zero tariff situation, effectively creating a free trade zone between Europe and North America,” Musk said, as quoted by Reuters.
Comments Follow Trump’s Sweeping Tariff Announcement
Musk’s remarks came shortly after US President Donald Trump imposed new tariffs of at least 10 percent on imports from most countries, including European Union members. Italy, which holds a significant trade surplus with the US, will face a general 20 percent tariff under the new plan.
Supports Greater Labor Mobility Across Continents
In the same conversation with League Party leader Matteo Salvini, Musk also advocated for easier cross-border labor movement. “If people wish to work in Europe or wish to work in North America, they should be allowed to do so in my view,” he stated, adding, “This has certainly been my advice to the president.”
Musk’s Ties With European Right-Wing Leaders
Musk, a vocal supporter of Donald Trump, has also shown increasing alignment with right-wing leaders in Europe. He supported Germany’s AfD and the UK’s Reform Party led by Nigel Farage. In Italy, Musk has close ties with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s Brothers of Italy party and Salvini’s League.
Last month, Musk thanked Salvini for suggesting Italy adopt his Starlink satellite system for communications. Meanwhile, Italy’s Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti called for “de-escalation” with the US and warned against retaliatory tariffs. Prime Minister Meloni also criticized Trump’s trade policy, calling the new tariffs “bad
